Police warn against over speeding when passing near schools

DAR ES SALAAM: DRIVERS in the city have instructed to exercise greater caution when passing near schools and areas frequented by children by observing traffic regulations, obeying road signs and reducing speed to help prevent road accidents.

The call was made by Traffic Police Officer Bumu Mwalugenge, who said the increasing number of road crashes had prompted the Traffic Police to intensify road safety education programmes in schools to equip pupils with essential road safety knowledge.

“We are visiting schools to educate pupils on traffic laws and road safety. This programme is continuous and targets students in schools across the country,” Mwalugenge said.

He also reminded motorists to slow down whenever they approach school zones or see children crossing the road, giving them enough time and space to cross safely.

Assistant Head Teacher, Neema Mwaipopo, said the road safety campaign had greatly benefited pupils, teachers and the wider community by increasing awareness of safe road use.

“Many pupils previously lacked knowledge of the correct way to cross the road and the meaning of road safety signs. This education has helped them understand the importance of using pedestrian crossings (zebra crossings) to stay safe,” she said.

She appealed to traffic police officers to continue conducting road safety awareness programmes in schools to help reduce road traffic accidents.

One of the pupils, Apewe Stefano, said he had learned that before crossing a road, pedestrians should first look right, then left, and finally right again to ensure it is safe to cross.

He also noted that pedestrians should never run while crossing the road or attempt to pick up objects that fall onto the roadway.

Another pupil, Rachel Amos, said she had learned that pedestrians should always cross at designated areas such as zebra crossings or pedestrian bridges to avoid accidents that could result in serious injuries or loss of life.