Constable Care’s Road Safety School

Empowering your children with road safety knowledge and skills is an essential aspect to ensuring their wellbeing as vulnerable road users. The significance of road safety for children cannot be overstated, particularly in Western Australia, where according to the WA road safety commission – on average – there was a road accident involving a child once every 3-4 days in 2022. The Constable Care Safety School equips children with the tools to safely navigate the streets in their communities and emphasises the importance of road, bike, passenger, pedestrian, and public transport safety.

Road Safety Facts in Western Australia

In WA, road safety remains a critical concern, and it is important to understand the specific challenges faced in the region. Here are some key road safety facts related to WA:

• According to the WA Road Safety Commission, in 2022, WA witnessed 110 road accidents involving children.
• Speeding continues to be a leading cause of road fatalities in the region.
• Alcohol and drug impairment contribute significantly to accidents, endangering lives and posing a severe threat to road safety.
• Distracted driving, primarily due to mobile phone usage, is a prevalent issue that puts all road users, especially children, at risk.
• Pedestrian accidents are a primary concern, with children being particularly vulnerable.

For more information, view the Western Australian Road Safety Commission’s annual report.

Leading Causes of Injury or Death

In 2022, road accidents continued to be a significant concern, the WA Road Safety Commission identified three causes that stand out prominently. Speed-related incidents topped the list, resulting in 251 fatalities or serious injuries, highlighting the significant consequences of excessive speed. Fatigue-related accidents followed closely, causing 196 deaths or severe injuries, and inattention while driving led to 111 cases of death or serious injury, emphasising the need for constant vigilance on the road. These statistics serve as a stark reminder of the critical importance of safe driving practices to prevent such tragedies.

Alcohol and Drug Impairment

Impaired driving due to alcohol or drug consumption is a dangerous practice that compromises judgment, coordination, and reaction time. It significantly increases the risk of accidents, endangering the lives of vulnerable road users, including children.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing concern in our technologically advanced society. Engaging in activities like texting, talking on the phone, or using social media while driving diverts attention from the road and increases the likelihood of accidents. Children, as pedestrians or passengers, are particularly susceptible to the consequences of distracted driving.

Pedestrian Safety as a Primary Concern

Pedestrian safety is crucial to protect children on the roads. Due to their limited experience and judgment, children must be educated about pedestrian safety measures. These include using designated crosswalks, obeying pedestrian signals, looking both ways before crossing, and avoiding walking or playing in the street.

Protecting Vulnerable Road Users

Safeguarding children on the roads requires a collaborative effort. Here are some practical safety tips to protect our young road users:

• Always wear a seatbelt when riding in a car.
• Wear a helmet when riding a bike, scooter, skateboard, rollerblades, roller skates or any e-rideables.
• Cross the street at crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals.
• Look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
• Walk, rather than run, when crossing the street.
• Keep distractions, such as phones, out of sight while walking.
• Avoid walking or playing in the street.
• Never run out into the street after a ball or other toy.
• Utilise sidewalks when available.
• Enhance visibility at night by wearing reflective clothing or using a flashlight.

Tips on Crossing the Road Safely

When crossing the road, it’s important to remember a few key safety tips to ensure you stay safe. Here are some essential points to keep in mind when speaking to your kids about this topic:

Walk on the Footpath, Not the Road

• Always walk on the footpath where it is available. The footpath is designed to keep pedestrians safe from vehicles. Walking on the road is dangerous and should be avoided.

Stop, Listen, and Look Before Crossing

• Before you step onto the road, make sure to stop at the edge. Take a moment to listen for any approaching vehicles. Look left, right, in front, and behind to ensure it’s safe to cross. Never assume a driver has seen you.

Look Out for Cars, Bikes, and Trucks

• Always be vigilant for different types of vehicles. Cars, bikes, and trucks can appear suddenly, and they may not always see you. Stay alert and be ready to stop if needed.

How Constable Care Helps Teach Road Safety

Constable Care Foundation, Western Australia’s leading safety education provider, is committed to the ongoing delivery of road safety education in schools, reaching children and parents alike. Through engaging programs, informative workshops, and interactive presentations, Constable Care equips children with essential road safety knowledge. By collaborating with parents and schools, Constable Care ensures that road safety education becomes an integral part of a child’s learning journey.

The Constable Care Foundation demonstrates a commitment to enhancing road safety for children by offering a suite of educational programs. Initiatives such as Getting to School and Safety School: On The Road, along with the well-received Safety School excursion, are at the forefront of this effort. By focusing on the continuous education of children, who are particularly vulnerable as road users, the foundation plays a crucial role in creating a culture of road safety. This approach empowers children with essential knowledge and equips parents and schools with the tools they need to reinforce these lessons in various settings, including at home. This approach ensures that the principles of road safety are integrated into the everyday lives of children, making them safer and more aware as they navigate their environments.