Child Safety and Playing in the Street

Child Safety and Playing in the Street

SMART ALERT - Child Safety and Playing in the Street

Following feedback received through recent community questionnaires, a concern raised by many residents is the safety of children playing in the street, riding bicycles and using scooters on the road.

While it is important for children to enjoy outdoor activities and remain active, roads are designed for vehicles, and children may not always be visible to drivers. We have received reports of children riding bikes and scooters at speed and failing to stop at junctions, creating a significant risk of collision and injury.

Where possible, children should be encouraged to use local parks, play areas and other designated recreational spaces which provide a safer environment away from moving traffic. Parents and guardians are also encouraged to discuss road safety with their children, including:

• Always stopping and looking both ways before crossing or entering a junction.
• Slowing down and stopping at road junctions, driveways and crossing points.
• Being aware of vehicles reversing from driveways and parking spaces.
• Wearing appropriate safety equipment, including cycle helmets and protective gear when using scooters.
• Avoiding distractions such as mobile phones or headphones when near roads.

We recognise that children will naturally want to play outdoors, however we ask parents to consider whether local parks and play areas may be a safer option, particularly where roads are busy or visibility is limited.

We would also ask motorists to remain vigilant when driving through residential areas, particularly after school, during evenings and at weekends, as children on bikes and scooters may enter the road unexpectedly.

By working together as a community, we can help keep our children safe while allowing them to enjoy outdoor activities responsibly.

Thank you for your continued support.

Neighbourhood Policing Team 🚓
Staffordshire Police