Police asking motorists to 'be cool'

With schools across the region starting up this week Waikato Police are driving a campaign to keep all road users safe by reducing the risks.

Starting dates are varied across the Waikato, with some secondary students returning today, and police are asking motorists to be cool when driving around schools.


Thames Road Safety Team Leader sergeant Jim Corbett is asking motorists to observe the speed warning signs on local school busses. Photo: Supplied

Acting District Road Policing Manager Inspector Dana McDonald says depending on where you live and what school your children attend, Term One can start between January 26 and next Thursday, February 5.

'While a staggered start, this still means a sharp increase in the number and type of road users," says Dana, "from new entrants being dropped off at school to more experienced students riding bikes or walking.

'That all adds to the congestion on our roads.”

Dana says it's not just student travelling by themselves that motorists need to keep in mind, but those travelling by school buses as well.

He is reminding all drivers that when passing school buses dropping off or picking up children here is a speed limit of 20km/h.

'At the same time various schools within Hamilton, satellite towns throughout the Waikato and rural communities all have sign posted reduced speed limits outside them.

'We ask all drivers to take note of these and adjust their speeds accordingly. It's about protecting those too young to look out for themselves.”

Dana says there were a number of key things road users can do to keep themselves and children returning or starting school safe and has the following tips:

Tips for motorists:

  • Be alert for children; they can be unpredictable.
  • Slow down in and near school zones or residential areas and come to a complete stop at all intersections.
  • Look for clues such as crossing guards, bicycles and playgrounds which indicate children could be in the area.
  • Scan between parked cars and other objects for signs that children could dart into the road.
  • Always stop for school buses that are loading and unloading students.
  • Allow plenty of time so you are not rushed as you travel to work or school.

Safe walking tips for parents:

  • Young children should be accompanied by an adult, older child, or a buddy.
  • Involve children in selecting the safest route to school/home. Take a practice walk with your children along the route so they become familiar with it.
  • Teach children to stop, listen and look for approaching and turning vehicles.
  • Discuss the use of crosswalks, and why it's safer to cross at some corners rather than others.
  • Discuss the meaning of traffic signals and markings along the route.
  • Teach them to cooperate with police, school safety patrols and adult crossing guards.
  • Set a good example for children - their actions and attitudes are modelled after yours.

When picking up or dropping off children:

  • Ensure children get in and out on the footpath side of the car.
  • Park safely, away from yellow lines, intersections and driveways.
  • Don't double park outside a school. Park further away if necessary and walk with your children to and from the school gate.
  • Drive slowly outside schools and be prepared to stop in case children dart out.

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