Make every journey a safe one with these simple road safety tips.
Whether it’s the first day of P1 or just another Monday morning, the school run can be hectic. Between forgotten lunches, missing shoes and traffic jams, it’s easy to forget the basics- like road safety.
At Road Safe NI, we believe every school journey should be safe, calm and stress-free. Here are 7 essential tips to help parents, carers and drivers keep our roads safer for children during the school run.
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Choose the Right Car Seat – And Fit It Properly
If your child is under 12 or under 135cm in height, they must use a child car seat that’s appropriate for their size and weight.
For more on this see- https://www.crashservices.com/have-you-the-right-child-car-seats-in-your-car/
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Give Yourself Extra Time
Running late leads to rushing and rushing leads to mistakes. Leaving just 10–15 minutes earlier can reduce stress, allow time for safe parking and keep you calm behind the wheel.
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Park Smart – Not Just Close
Avoid stopping:
- On yellow zigzag lines
- Near corners, crossings or junctions
- Where you block driveways or force children to cross between cars
Park a little further and walk, it’s safer and gives everyone a few minutes of fresh air.
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Always Obey the Lollipop Person
The school crossing patrol (or “lollipop person”) plays a crucial role in keeping children safe. Follow their instructions, stop when asked and thank them, they stand in all weathers to protect your kids.
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Ditch the Distractions
Stay off your phone, turn down the radio and keep your eyes on:
- Pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Children who may step out without looking
Remember, kids can be unpredictable. Stay alert.
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Teach Your Child the Basics
Whether walking with you or independently:
- Always stop, look, listen and think
- Use pedestrian crossings
- Stay off phones and headphones when crossing
Reinforce these habits at home, they’ll last a lifetime.
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Respect the School Zone
Slow down to 20mph or less in school zones, even if there’s no official signage. Children are harder to see and may dart into the road unexpectedly. Speed limits are a maximum, not a target.
Final Thought:
The school run may be routine, but road safety should never be taken for granted. By following these simple tips, you’re helping to protect not just your own children, but every child in your community.
Together, we can make Northern Ireland’s roads safer- one school run at a time.
