School commences in NRW, with law enforcement providing recommendations for securing educational institutions
In Dortmund and Lünen, children have various modes of transport to navigate their daily journey to school - from walking and cycling, to using buses and trains. This diverse commuting approach caters to the needs of young learners, offering flexibility and convenience.
The Dortmund Police, as part of their traffic safety work, are focusing on ensuring the safety of students during their school commute. They emphasise the importance of parents as role models for safe road behaviour, as children often adopt the habits of adults around them.
To ensure a safe environment, the police encourage parents to consider alternatives to driving their children to school. Congestion, parking, and turning maneuvers increase the risk for children on foot or bike, making it essential to reduce car traffic around schools.
The Dortmund Police's Traffic Puppet Theater in Westfalenpark is one such initiative aimed at educating children about road dangers and safe behaviour. The theater presents engaging performances that highlight the importance of traffic rules and road safety.
When cycling to school, it is strongly advised that bikes are in good technical condition and that helmets are worn. Wearing bright, reflective clothing or bags is also recommended to increase visibility, especially during low-light conditions.
Particular attention is needed around bus stops, as drivers should be prepared for children suddenly stepping out between buses. 'Drop-off and pick-up' traffic by car often creates dangerous situations, particularly at primary schools.
The Dortmund Police have seen a decrease in school traffic accidents in recent years. In 2023, six children were injured, and this number dropped to five in 2024. This positive trend is a testament to the effectiveness of the police's efforts in promoting road safety.
For further questions, Theresa Stritzke, a police spokesperson for the Dortmund Police, is available for press inquiries and communication within the police department. She can be reached at 0231/132-1026 or via email at [email protected].
The Dortmund Police's information can also be found on their website at https://dortmund.polizei.nrw/. By working together, the cities of Dortmund and Lünen aim to continue promoting safe and responsible travel for their young students.
