STUDENTS at Dubbo South Public School took part in the national Walk Safely to School Day, where they helped promote a healthier, active lifestyle.
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Now in its 17th year, the initiative aims to encourage children to lead a healthier, more active lifestyle by simply including a walk at the beginning, at lunchtime and at the end of each day.
The event also promotes reduced car-dependency, greater use of public transport, cleaner air, improved diets and road safety to primary school children throughout Australia.
Dubbo South Public School PDPHE teacher James De Lyall was out the front of the school encouraging the students who took part in the event.
“Hopefully this day promotes a whole active lifestyle,” he said.
Active Healthy Kids Australia (AHKA) report that only one in five Australian kids are meeting the recommended national Physical Activity guidelines of accumulating at least 60 minutes of moderate-tovigorous physical activity (MVPA) every day. NSW Police recorded some 16,336 illegal actions in school zones, with 11,568 infringed for speed-related offences in 2015.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner John Hartley said school children were amongst the most vulnerable of road users.
“Any moving vehicle near children is potentially a dangerous traffic situation for them,” Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
“Police and other safety authorities work constantly to make our roads safer for motorists and pedestrians; but awareness and education are still the most important tools in road safety. “
By teaching children early about pedestrian safety and leading by example, the whole community can assist in reducing the risk of harm to children on our roads.’’