Taking the Safe Route Back to School

Whether your child is walking to school travelling by bus, cycling or you are driving your child to school the following safety guidelines apply.  

Travelling by Car

• All children should be restrained when travelling in a car.
• Select a restraint that is based on your child's weight and height and is suitable for the type of car.
• Remember its safer if children travel in the rear of a car.
• Never leave children alone in a car.

Walking to School

• Small children should not cross roads alone. They cannot decide how far away a car is or how fast it is going.
• Children walking on country roads should wear reflective armbands and bright clothing.
• If there is no footpath, walk on the right-hand side of the road facing oncoming traffic keeping as close as possible to the side of the road.
• Show your child how to cross the road by example. Choose safe places to cross and take time to explain why i.e. footbridges, zebra or pelican crossings, lollipop lady/man or junior school warden patrol.

Travelling by Bus

• Teach children to take special care getting on or off a bus or mini-bus.
• While waiting for a bus, children should stand well in off the road.
• Before crossing the road they should wait until the bus has moved off and they can see clearly in both directions.

Cycle Safety

• Make sure they are highly visible by wearing a reflective belt and bright clothes and wear a bicycle safety helmet on all journeys.
• Check that the bicycle's brakes, lights, reflector and bell are in good working order.

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