"Back to school campaign for Waitemata Police"

Waitemata Police are reminding road users to slow down and think about the safety of children as they return back to school on Monday morning.

Police will be actively patrolling school zones and other high risk routes.

The month of October historically shows a significant spike in the number of crashes in high risk areas across Auckland motorways and the Waitemata district.

“The severity of injuries is related to impact speed.

If someone is hit by a car travelling at 50km/hr, they have very little chance of surviving.”

“The speed limits around schools are reduced to give children a better chance if something goes wrong,” says Inspector Trevor Beggs, Waitemata Road Policing Manager.

One of the key areas for Police will be vehicles exceeding the speed limits in school zones and around school buses, where the limit is 20km/hr.

“Drivers must slow down in case a child runs out unexpectedly,” says Mr Beggs.

“While the main focus is keeping our children safe, a driver caught exceeding the speed limit past a school bus is issued with an immediate $150 infringement notice.”

Although it may be convenient, parents are reminded to never stop on yellow lines or double park:

“Immediate infringement notices will be issued for those stopping in these dangerous spots.

Some schools have real issues with this as it creates a significant safety risk to children, blocking visibility for them and other road users.”

Pedestrian crossings are another hazard near schools.

“Children may run straight onto the painted lines without looking.

It is up to the driver to remain alert and aware in order keep those kids safe.”

Drivers are reminded to be alert and avoid distraction.

“That means putting your cell phone out of reach to avoid temptation, not turning around to speak to kids in the back seat, and watching out for others on bikes or crossing the roads.

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Mr Beggs wants parents to take responsibility for ensure their children get to school safely.

“Supervise your child on the way to school wherever possible and use proper crossings.

It’s worth getting your child to join a walking bus to get into good habits too.

“If travelling by car, ensure children are in the appropriate restraint and that it is properly fitted.

“For those biking to school, make sure they have a properly fitting helmet, wear highly visible clothing and have a safe bike, with inflated tyres and working brakes.

“If you have a teenager driving to school, have a conversation with them about abiding by the conditions of their licence and remind them to watch their speed past schools.”

“No one wants to hurt someone else so be aware that sometimes others make mistakes and your speed can decide the outcome.”

ENDS

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