Press release -
Bury Council Launches School Crossings Safety Campaign for Summer
Bury Council is urging drivers and families to take extra care around school crossings after several reports of near misses have been reported. The initiative aims to reinforce road safety messages and counteract poor driver behaviour and lack of awareness.
By law, drivers must stop when signalled to do so by a patrol displaying the stop sign, and it is an offence under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 if motorists ignore the law. Penalties can include a fine of up to £1000, 3 penalty points, or disqualification.
Over the summer term Bury’s Director of Children’s Services Jeanette Richards and Director of Education Stephen Holden will also be visiting some of the borough’s dedicated school crossings staff – some of whom have been helping young people cross the road safely for over 30 years.
As well as thanking the team for their long service, they will discuss safety issues and some of the problems that can occur.
Bury Council will be working with partners including schools to raise awareness of road safety issues among pupils, parents and the wider community, encourage safe crossing behaviours and reduce incidents near schools, and are urging people to observe the following rules:
For Drivers:
- Slow down near schools– a child struck at 20mph will most likely survive, but at 40mph they will most likely die.
- Be alert for crossing patrol staff and always stop when signalled.
- Remain patient and do not move forward until signalled to do so and the crossing is clear
- Stay off your phone and avoid distractions.
- Never park on zigzag markings and park away from school gates so that sight lines are clear.
For Parents and Carers:
- Set a good example by always using the crossing with your child.
- Don’t rush; allow plenty of time for drop-off and pick-up.
- Hold your child’s hand near roads and crossings.
- Remind children to stop, look, and listen before crossing.
For Pupils:
- Always use the crossing, even if you’re in a hurry.
- Wait for the school crossing person’s signal before stepping out.
- Look both ways and listen for traffic.
- Never run across the road.
Councillor Lucy Smith, Deputy Leader of Bury Council and Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said:
“The safety of our children is paramount, and it’s everyone’s responsibility to make sure they can get to and from school safely. Our dedicated school crossing patrols do an incredible job, but they need the full support of drivers, parents, and the community. I urge everyone to slow down, pay attention, and respect the rules around school crossings. Together, we can prevent accidents and ensure every child gets a safe start and end to their school day."
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