As the school holidays approach, we know that daily routines often shift, and everyone can enjoy a more relaxed pace. With different play locations and holiday destinations, it's important to be aware of changed traffic environments and new safety concerns.

To help keep our children safe, please remember these key road safety messages while on holidays and in new environments:

Spot the differences

Holiday areas may have roads, footpaths, parks, light rail, car parks, and bike tracks that look very different or are completely unfamiliar, especially if you're travelling overseas. It's crucial to point out these differences and potential dangers to your children.

Active supervision

The best way to ensure children's safety is through active supervision. Talk and teach children about road safety every time you're out and about, especially during school holidays.

Model safe and responsible road use

When walking, discuss the safe decisions you make, as your children may not have been in these situations before. Always remember to stop, look, listen, and think every time you cross the road. Hold your child's hand when near or crossing roads if they are 8 years old or younger. For children up to at least 10 years old, supervise them closely, as holiday excitement can distract them.

Helmet safety

By law, everyone must wear a helmet when riding a bike in a public place. It's also a smart choice to wear a helmet when using scooters or skateboards. Encourage your children to make helmet use a habit—it's a simple step that helps keep them safe.

Older and independent

As older children gain more independence, it’s important to talk with them about staying safe while out and about. Key topics to discuss include:

• their travel plans and how they’ll get to and from places safely
• the importance of responsible safe travel behaviours
• using Stop, Look, Listen, Think every time they cross the road
• keeping mobile phones and other distractions away when near or crossing the road.