School commences in NRW: Police offer guidelines for secure schools
The Dortmund Police are taking active steps to ensure the safety of students on their daily journey to school, following a slight decrease in school-related accidents in the city and nearby Lünen.
In recent years, unfortunate incidents have occurred, with five children injured in school-related accidents in 2024, and six children injured in 2023. These statistics highlight the need for increased vigilance and adherence to road safety guidelines.
The Dortmund Police are providing tips for parents and road users to contribute to a safe environment around schools. Adults, especially parents, play a crucial role in road safety education as children often observe and imitate adult behaviour.
It is strongly advised that bicycles should be in good technical condition, and wearing a helmet is strongly advised for cyclists, particularly children. For increased visibility, the Dortmund Police recommend wearing bright, reflective clothing or bags.
Parents can contribute to a safe environment around schools by avoiding the use of a car, if possible. 'Drop-off and pick-up' traffic by car often creates dangerous situations, especially at primary schools.
Particular attention is required in the vicinity of bus stops, as motorists should be prepared for children suddenly emerging from between parked buses. On their way to school, children may walk, cycle, or use public transport, and some parents drive their children to school in what is known as a 'parent taxi'.
The Dortmund Police's road safety efforts include a traffic puppet theater, which is aimed at kindergarten groups and primary school classes. The head of the traffic play theater is Ute Bischof, and it forms part of the traffic safety efforts in Westfalenpark.
The traffic puppet theater is an essential tool in the Dortmund Police's efforts to prevent school-related accidents. The causes of accidents involving children can include weather conditions, time of year, local conditions, and incorrect behaviour by drivers and pedestrians.
Those who comply with the rules convey safety and reinforce correct behaviour in children. The Dortmund Police continue to focus on ensuring the safety of students on their daily journey to school, and journalists with inquiries can contact Theresa Stritzke at 0231/132-1026 or [email protected].
