Ireland's Online Resource for Parents & Teachers
Be Road Safety Aware During School Holidays
- The Road Safety Authority is advising parents to "make sure your child knows how to behave safely on the roads. If they’re cycling, ensure that they wear the proper protective gear such as a bicycle helmet and high visibility clothing. If they’re walking or playing near roads, make sure they know that they should only cross the road with a grown up and only when it’s safe to do so. Most importantly, make sure you demonstrate good road safety behaviour at all times. Children learn from what we as parents do so if you’re in the car, drive in a responsible and safe manner and always wear your seatbelt.”
- Motorists, be aware of children when driving, particularly through residential areas
- All children should be restrained when travelling in a car
- Select a restraint that is based on your child’s weight and height and is suitable for the type of car
- Remember it’s safer if children travel in the rear of a car
- Never leave children alone in a car
- Small children should not cross roads alone. They cannot decide how far away a car is or how fast it is going
- Children walking on country roads should wear reflective armbands and bright clothing
- If there is no footpath, walk on the right-hand side of the road facing oncoming traffic keeping as close as possible to the side of the road
- Show your child how to cross the road by example.
- Choose safe places to cross and take time to explain why i.e. footbridges, zebra or pelican crossings
- Make sure they are highly visible by wearing a reflective belt and bright clothes and wear a bicycle safety helmet on all journeys
- Check that the bicycle’s brakes, lights, reflector and bell are in good working order
The RSA also has the following advice for parents and motorists:
Travelling by Car:
For more information on road safety for children, as well as interactive games and videos, visit the ‘Road Safety for Kids’ section of RSA website, www.rsa.ie
