As NSW schools resume this week—Ensuring our children’s safety requires attention from both parents and the community.
Here are some practical tips from Excite Safety to help keep everyone safe for the new school year.
Driving around schools
With strict enforcement of school zones and childrens lives at stake, it is crucial for drivers to slow down and stay vigilant near schools.
Always keep an eye out for pedestrians and remember that extra caution in school areas can prevent accidents.
When dropping off or picking up students, make sure to use designated areas—never stop on pedestrian crossings or double park.
Pedestrian Safety Matters
Children should always look both ways before crossing the street and use pedestrian crossings whenever possible.
In areas crowded with parked cars, visibility can be limited, so both drivers and pedestrians need to be extra alert.
Encourage kids to stick to footpaths and stay away from the kerb, especially in near bus stops and pick up zones where cars frequently pull over.
Safe Riding for Bicycles, Scooters, and E-Rideables
Teach children responsible riding by ensuring they wear helmets and follow road rules.
Riders older than 12 and adults should stick to the left lane or dedicated bike paths, and always use hand signals to show their intentions clearly.
Remember, footpaths are for pedestrians—cyclists and scooter riders must give way at all times. Riders should dismount in areas where there is heavy pedestrian actitivity such as near school gates.
Stunt riding belongs in designated parks or private property, not public roads.
After riding, be sure to park bikes and rideables so they don’t block roads, pathways, or access points.
Mobile Phones and Staying Alert
If your child carries a mobile phone, remind them to keep it stashed away while walking or riding to stay aware of their surroundings.
Make sure your childs emergency contacts are saved in the phone’s medical app.
Teach your child how and when to call emergency services (000) and consider installing the Emergency Plus app for added security.
Don’t forget to store other helpful numbers in the contacts like Kids Helpline (1800 551800), Lifeline (13 11 14) , Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26 and the police assistance (131 444).
Preparedness for Emergencies
Equip your child with basic knowledge on emergency response—including calling for help and practising basic first aid skills like bleeding management. Even the littlest kids can be proactive in an emergency.
Older children, especially those preparing for work, may benefit from enrolling in a first aid course. For younger children ( up to 12 ) check out our kids first aid courses that are added to the public schedule during school holidays.
Ensure kids know at least one parent or guardian’s number by heart, along with their home address.
For kids who commute independently to and from school, identifying safe spots along their route where help is available can provide peace of mind.
Be a Role Model
Actions speak louder than words.
Adults play a vital role by consistently modelling safe and respectful behaviour on the way to school, within school grounds, and in the wider community.
Demonstrating civility and thoughtful interaction teaches children how to handle tricky situations and helps create a safer environment for everyone.
By following these guidelines and setting a strong example, we can help our children travel safely and confidently every day.
At Excite Safety, we’re here to help our community and protect people, including our littlest community members
Need an expert safety talk or kids first aid course at your school or community group ?
We’d love to help. Get in touch for a chat.
