Road Safety - Haumaru Huarahi
Car Seats
You must use a car seat until you are at least 148cm tall, or 11 years old. When you’re young, being a passenger in motor vehicles can be dangerous due to your height and size.
So, let’s be as safe as we can! Car seats are a proven method of significantly reducing the risk of injuries.
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!
