Ardross Primary School P&C president Cindy Webster has been advocating for improved road safety around the school for seven years due to several near misses involving students trying to cross near the busy corner of Drew Road and Riseley Street. She has noted that with more cars on the road and speeding, it can be dangerous for kids trying to cross on their own. Last month, police issued infringements to more than 400 motorists caught speeding in a school zone in Peppermint Grove, with many drivers exceeding the school zone limit by a significant margin. There were almost 600 category A children’s crossings throughout the state, staffed by wardens funded and provided by WA Police, with recruiting and retaining these wardens proving to be a challenge for the Children’s Crossings Unit.
The Children’s Crossings Unit has identified certain sites as priorities for electronic signage installation this year to improve road safety around schools. Some of these locations include the Australian Islamic College – Kewdale Campus, Banksia Grove Primary School, Churchlands Senior High School, and West Busselton Primary School. These electronic signs will help alert drivers to school zones and encourage them to slow down, reducing the risk of accidents involving students crossing the road. Improving road safety around schools is a crucial aspect of ensuring the well-being of children and preventing tragic incidents.
The high number of motorists caught speeding in school zones highlights the importance of enforcing road safety regulations to protect children. The presence of electronic signage and wardens at children’s crossings can help deter drivers from speeding and encourage them to drive safely around schools. It is essential for both authorities and the community to work together to address road safety concerns, implement necessary measures, and educate drivers about the importance of adhering to speed limits in school zones.
It is crucial for schools and parents to advocate for improved road safety measures to protect children from the risks associated with busy roads and speeding drivers. By working closely with local authorities, schools can help identify areas that require enhanced road safety infrastructure, such as electronic signage and crossing wardens. Educating students about road safety and instilling good habits from a young age can also contribute to reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries involving children crossing the road.
The efforts of Ardross Primary School P&C president Cindy Webster and other advocates for improved road safety around schools are essential in raising awareness and prompting action to address this issue. By highlighting the dangers faced by students trying to cross busy roads, these advocates can press for necessary improvements, such as the installation of electronic signage and the recruitment of crossing wardens. Collaborative efforts between schools, parents, local authorities, and law enforcement are key to implementing effective road safety measures and ensuring the well-being of children in the community.
In conclusion, the need for improved road safety around schools is evident from the high number of motorists caught speeding in school zones and the potential risks this poses to children. By advocating for measures such as electronic signage and crossing wardens, schools can help create safer environments for students to cross the road. It is vital for authorities and the community to work together to enforce road safety regulations, educate drivers, and prioritize the well-being of children when it comes to road safety.
