Road Safety Tips - School Children

The advice given below on crossing the road is especially for children. Children should be taught the safety code and should not be allowed on the road alone until they can understand and follow it properly. Children learn by example, so parents and teachers should always follow the Code properly when going out with their children. They are responsible for deciding at what age children can use it safely by them.

While Walking to School

• Always walk on the footpath only. On roads without footpath, walk on the extreme right hand side of the roads.
• Do not be impatient on the road. Do not rush or run on the road.
• Cross only at Zebra crossings, traffic signals, subways, foot over-bridges. Where such facilities do not exist, look for a safe place to cross.
• At the signal lights, cross only on a clear green signal. If an intersection is controlled by a policeman, traffic warden or RSP cadet, cross only when he signals you to do so.
• When crossing between vehicles parked on the side of the road, remember that you are not visible to the moving traffic (because the parked vehicles may be taller than you). Stop as you appear from behind the vehicle and look for a safe gap before crossing. Remember, drivers need plenty of time to see you and to slow down and stop.
• While crossing wide roads that have central islands, always cross in two stages. Cross to the central Island , stop, and cross when the next section is clear.
• While crossing one-way roads, remember that the traffic will be moving at a higher speeds. Do not cross unless it is safe.
• Never cross a road at a corner/curve, as the motorist taking the turn will not be able to see you in time.
• Running across the road is a bad idea, as you may slip and fall.

While going by bus

• Leave home well in time, so that you won't have to run to catch the bus.
• At the bus stand, always follow the queue. Board the bus only after it has come to a halt, without rushing in or pushing others.
• While in the bus, shouting or making a noise is definitely bad manners. Such behavior can also distract the driver.
• Do not board or alight at a bus stop other than the one decided by the school. Never board and alight at a red light crossing or unauthorized bus stop.
• Always hold onto the handrail if standing in a moving bus, especially on sharp turns.
• Do not sit, stand or travel on the footboard of the bus.
• Do not sit, stand or travel on the footboard of the bus.
• Do not put any part of your body outside a moving or stationary bus.
• Always adhere to the bus safety rules.

Guidelines for parents of school children

• Parents are equally responsible for the safety of their children during school journeys.
• They must ensure that the mode of transport arranged by school or by themselves is absolutely safe.
• Parents must play the role of vigilant observers. They should note down violations committed by school buses and immediately report to the authorities.
• Parents must participate in Parent Teachers Association meetings and discuss the safety aspects of their children. While taking their children to school themselves, they should take proper care of their safety.
• Parents must ensure that the children acquire the right knowledge and skills for safe use of roads. They should teach their children the basic rules of the road, how to walk and cross the road, how to alight and board a bus etc.
• Parents should not allow their minor children to drive.
• Parents must also ensure that the right attitude for a law abiding citizen is imparted to their children by the family.
• Children are very good observers and therefore, parents must set an example by meticulously observing even small traffic rules.
• Remember safety of children must be the foremost priority of every parent.

Guidelines for teachers for ensuring safety of school children :

• It is the responsibility of school authorities and the teachers to ensure the safety of school children and also to impart the necessary knowledge, skills and attitude to be a safe road user.
• Teachers should help to develop a responsible attitude towards road use to school children.
• Teachers should impart essential knowledge about roads and traffic to school children.