There was further distressing news overnight that yet another youngster has died after being hit by a car whilst running across the road in NSW.
Since the start of this year alone, seven children have died after being hit by some type of vehicle whilst running across the road.
And usually, this is through absolutely no fault of the driver. I know how fast little ones can run, and they are also incredibly impulsive.
If they see a friend across the street, or their ball flies out onto the road, or in the case of yesterday the little one was so keen to get to their after school activity they ran right across the road and in front of a car that was not speeding at all.
We all need a reminder. I don’t think we can remind our little ones (and our big ones) enough of the road rules.
The following information is from the Road Safety Transport NSW Government website. The information is relevant to everyone everywhere in every state.
‘Keep a careful watch
Children’s desire to explore can lead them into danger. Children are more likely to be injured close to home, often in their own street or driveway. Adults need to talk to children about road safety in ways they will understand, keeping messages simple and clear. Even at home, parents and carers need to watch young children carefully, as they can move quickly, especially when left unsupervised.
Whenever children are in a car, they should be safely buckled-up in child car seats that are correct for each child’s age and size. Authorised Restraint Fitting Stations offer expert help on fitting and adjusting child car seats.
While driving, adults can explain how child car seats and seatbelts keep us safe, why it is best to use the Safety Door (rear door closest to the kerb, footpath or gutter and away from the road) to get in and out of the car and other passenger safety messages. By holding their hands when walking and teaching them safe behaviour, you can protect them from danger and help them become safer pedestrians.
Setting family rules about playing safely, away from footpaths and driveways can help keep them out of harm. Songs and Rhymes For Young Children uses music to deliver road safety messages.
Adults need to make sure children hold a grown-up’s hand, wear a bike helmet, or wear a seatbelt, even though they may resist.
Kids & Traffic has more information on childhood road safety.For road safety activities in your local community, contact the road safety officer at your local council.’
Another great website is https://www.safetytown.com.au/ There is some great information on this website for both adults and kids. It is targeted towards kids, wit some interactive activities as well.
And PLEASE, let’s keep our kids safe. I would much prefer to have an argument with an eight year old about holding my hand when we are near a road, than what yet another poor family is going through today.