Prioritise pedestrian safety

As students, families, and school communities across county Cork continue their daily journeys Cork County Council, in partnership with An Garda Siochana, Cork County Fire Service and the Road Safety Authority, is urging all road users to prioritise pedestrian safety especially at busy school gate areas, which remain high‑risk zones throughout the year.

Ensuring that children travel safely requires a collective effort from parents, guardians, students, and drivers. By following established safety guidelines and modelling responsible behaviour, we can significantly reduce the risk of pedestrian incidents around county Cork. The RSA Seatbelt Sheriff was on hand to support the launch.

Speaking at the launch Pedestrian Safety Campaign, Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan-Foley highlighted the importance of working together for safer communities. “With the combined efforts of families, schools, residents, and drivers, County Cork can continue to strengthen its commitment to pedestrian safety. Every safe decision—whether it’s a driver slowing down, a parent modelling safe behaviour, or a child following the Safe Cross Code will contribute to safer roads,” she said.

School wardens and crossing points

Pedestrians, use designated points to cross safely. School wardens play a vital role in protecting children and supporting safe school crossing points. It is a vita service that deserves everyone’s respect. Their instructions must be followed at all times.

Pedestrians are reminded of the importance of:

· Always using school warden–supervised crossings where available.

· Following signals at controlled crossings.

· Exercising caution at uncontrolled crossings, where extra vigilance is required due to the absence of signals or supervision.

· Pedestrians always ensure that the traffic has come to a complete stop before stepping onto the road.

· Pedestrians put away any distractions like mobile phones or ear phones when crossing or using the road.

· Adult pedestrians please model safe behaviour at all times by using designated crossing areas. Take those extra few steps to get to the crossing.

· Using these designated crossing points ensures the safest possible environment for pedestrians to cross the road.

A message for drivers

Drivers play a critical role in keeping pedestrians safe. When approaching schools or pedestrian crossing points remember to:

· Slow down and obey posted speed limits

· Expect the unexpected, particularly around younger children

· Respect the School Warden service

· Park responsibly, keeping clear of:

o Zig‑zag lines near crossings

o Double yellow lines

o Restricted parking zones

o Private driveways and entrances

· Allow extra time, especially during morning and afternoon peaks

· Be patient —safety first always.

The Safe Cross Code

Children and adults alike are encouraged to follow The Safe Cross Code, which promotes essential behaviours such as:

· Stop, look all around and listen

· Wait until it is safe to cross

· Never run across the road

· Keep watching and listening while crossing.

· Parents and guardians are reminded to model these behaviours, as children learn most effectively by example.

Be seen

Wearing high‑visibility clothing—particularly during winter months, in low‑light or bad weather greatly increases the visibility of pedestrians. Adults accompanying children are strongly encouraged to wear hi‑vis gear to reinforce safe habits and ensure they are easily seen by drivers.

It’s never too late to revisit your behaviour on the roads and together we can all make a difference.