Road Safety - Haumaru Huarahi
Car Seats
If you’re under 7, you must travel in an approved car seat or booster seat. If you’re 7, use one if it’s available. From age 8, always buckle up with a seat belt. For extra safety, keep using a booster seat until you’re 148 cm tall.
Child Pedestrians - Walking on / crossing the road
In New Zealand, being a child pedestrian can be particularly dangerous, particularly on rural, open roads.
How to Cross the Road Safely – Penguin Style:
- Heads up and devices down when crossing the road.
- Keep an eye out for sneaky hidden driveways.
- Use pedestrian crossings and controlled intersections.
- Wanna join a ‘walking school bus’ when travelling to school? It’s like having a superhero squad!
Driveways
Driveways can prevent hidden dangers. Here are some signs of a driveway where you need to be super cautious:
- A long driveway
- A driveway on a quiet road or cul-de-sac (that’s the circle bit at the end of a dead-end road).
- A driveway with pedestrian access.
- No fence between the driveway and play area.
If you are walking past, or on, a driveway that has any of these features, you need to keep an extra careful eye out for cars, as the driver might not be able to see you.
Cycling? Wear a helmet
- ALWAYS wear a helmet when cycling.
- Learn to ride a bicycle really confidently before you take it anywhere near a road.
- Be smart – plan safe cycle routes with an adult. The best riders are skilled riders.
- Be safe – no helmet, no bike.
- Be seen – wear bright colours and use reflective gear.
- Remember the 2-V-1 rule for helmet wear:
- 2 – The helmet should be no more than two fingers above your eyebrow.
- V – Adjust the straps under your ears. They should form two ‘Vs’.
- 1 – No more than one finger should fit under the chin strap.
Scooters & Skateboards
The same goes for scooters and skateboards: Always wear a helmet to prevent head injuries.
So, my road safety penguins, gear up, stay safe, and let’s roll into a year of amazing adventures!
