Duncan Gay med rel: School zones remain in place until the end of this week

Minister for Roads Duncan Gay today reminded motorists of the critical role they play in making sure NSW kids have a safe and happy start to the school holidays.

“Even though we’re all starting to unwind, we need drivers to remember to be alert and safe around schools,” Mr Gay said.

“For many students, the school year will finish this afternoon, but school days vary with some being open until Friday – which is why school zones will remain in place across the state until the end of this week.

“Children can be unpredictable around roads – particularly during this time of year when they’re distracted by Christmas and holiday excitement – so we really need drivers to be extra careful.

“Slow down to 40km/h during school zone hours, obey flashing lights avoid tricky manoeuvres and keep a look out because kids are about.

“Last year, we saw a tragic crash in the final week of school where a little boy visiting Sydney’s north west lost his life, and in December 2012 another boy was hit and killed on his way to school at Kingsgrove.

“We need your help to make sure this doesn’t happen again, so please, be aware and cautious around schools so our kids can have a safe and happy start to the school holidays.

“We’ve got lots of reminders in place for motorists including flashing lights at many schools across the state and our Speed Adviser App, which provides audio alerts when the speed limit changes or if you are speeding.

“Parents and carers, remember that supervision is key so hold your child’s hand, drop them off and pick them up rather than calling them from across the road and talk to your kids about the need to stop, look, listen and think every time they cross a road.

“It’s also important for drivers to take extra care on local roads and in holiday hot spots. Kids are out and about and may not always be familiar with the roads and associated dangers when they’re away from home.”