With just a few days remaining before the nation’s roadways witness an influx of students heading back into the classroom, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is encouraging children to exercise caution while using the roadways.

In a statement on Wednesday, August 30, the JCF said that “amidst the palpable excitement and eagerness to resume classes, it’s imperative to recognise the potential hazards that come with travel on the roads. An earnest call resonates with parents and children alike, urging a heightened sense of caution during travels.”

In an effort to ensure the safety of the nation’s children while they travel to and from school, the JCF has hared a number of road safety tips for both parents and children.

Pause, observe and listen

There are some critical road safety etiquettes that everyone must know and practise before crossing the road, which include coming to a halt before crossing the road, observing and listening attentively before attempting to cross the road.

If you are using a crosswalk, ensure to push the button and wait for the walk signal before crossing the road. If there is no crosswalk or pedestrian crossing close by, be sure to look and listen before attempting to cross the street. Make eye contact with the driver or hold up your hand to let them know that you would like to cross the street.

Parents should also sensitise children about these road safety practices to ensure their safety while they use the roadways.

Escort children to school

Amid the growing concerns surrounding the safety and security of the nation’s children, parents are being advised to escort their children to and from school until they become familiar with the routes.

Where possible, parents should seek to accompany their child to and from school, or designate a trusted guardian to do so in their absence.

Avoid playing along the roadways

The JCF is also cautioning children against playing along bustling thoroughfares, which may result in accidents. The police say parental vigilance in guarding against these perils is indispensable.

Embrace pedestrian crossing

Pedestrian crossings are areas along the nation’s roads that are designated for foot traffic and also ensure the safety of pedestrians.

Parents should encourage their children to embrace pedestrian crossings and in the instance that there are no pedestrian crossings, children should be sensitised on the proper ways to cross the road.

Shun solo sojourns

According to the JCF, travelling in groups can minimise the vulnerability of potential threats, particularly abduction and other crimes like robbery.

Therefore, parents are being advised to encourage their children to travel in groups when travelling to and from school.

Face oncoming traffic

Finally, children are being encouraged to walk in a direction that faces ongoing traffic, which allows them to spot incoming vehicles, thereby reduce the risk of them stepping into busy traffic.

The JCF also noted that heightened vigilance to rear-ward streets is very important.