SCHOOL pupils in Ellesmere Port have been taught to pay extra attention to large trucks and lorries when using local roads.
The council’s Safe and Sustainable Travel Team, working with the DHL UK Foundation, held a road safety initiative which included Trucks and Child Safety (TACs) advice – aimed towards improving road safety in respect of large goods vehicles and young children.
Pupils from St Mary’s of the Angels Primary School benefited from the demonstration which included advice on the view the driver has at the front and rear of the vehicle; how the driver will not be able to hear anyone shouting to alert them to dangers due to engine noise; the dangers of retrieving balls and the dangers of standing too close to a vehicle.
A demonstration showed children what happens to a traffic cone caught underneath the wheels of a slow moving HGV and pupils were given access to the cockpit of the truck to experience engine noise and views from mirrors and blindspots on the vehicles.
Executive member for Community and Environment, Councillor Lynn Riley, said: “It is vital that we equip our children with the necessary skills to keep them safe on the roads near to where they live and ensure they pay extra attention to large trucks and lorries.
“Young people don’t have the same awareness as adults of the size and speed at which vehicles are travelling so taking extra time is essential.
“This initiative can help children gain important road safety skills and understand what it is like to be a lorry driver who maybe cannot hear or see a child near the vehicle.
“I am sure that this scheme is really enjoyed by the children involved and certainly makes learning fun.”
