By Esther Lauaki
Slow down and obey the road rules.
That was the message to motorists as children across Wyndham returned to school this week.
Wyndham council is calling on parents and carers to take extra caution when dropping their children off at school to ensure the safety of the public and avoid fines.
Safer communities portfolio holder Kim McAliney said council observed motorists engaging in unsafe – and sometimes dangerous – behaviour around schools in the past year.
“We understand how busy parents can be trying to get the kids to school in the morning and picking them up in the afternoon, but it is no excuse for unsafe driving and parking,” Cr McAliney said.
“Council will be issuing fines to people double parking near schools or parking outside of designated car spaces.”
Cr McAliney said council was working closely with Victoria Police to ensure drivers slow down to 40 kilometres per hour outside school zones between 8am and 9.30am as well as 2.30pm to 4pm.
“The safety of our school crossing supervisors is paramount, and anyone caught driving past their stop signs will be fined,” she said.
She also urged parents to reduce school run stress by encouraging students to ride, walk, or scoot to school.
“This not only increases the family’s physical activity but reduces traffic congestion,” Cr McAliney said.
“It is important to ensure children cross at the supervised school crossing, stay on the footpath and are aware of their surroundings.”
