Caution on the Road: schools are reopening this week, so be mindful of children on the streets.

In the city of Hamm, preparations are underway to ensure the safety of students as they return to school. The Hamm Police and the city council are collaborating to implement a series of measures aimed at safeguarding the well-being of the young learners.

For those seeking more information about these traffic safety measures, the Hamm Police Headquarters Press Office can be contacted at Phone: 02381 916-1006, Email: [email protected], or via their Website: https://hamm.polizei.nrw/.

Beginning August 28, a total of 1,700 first-graders will commence their educational journey at 27 Hamm elementary schools. In response, increased police patrols will be conducted at and around these schools in the coming weeks. The focus of these patrols will be on monitoring compliance with speed limits, ensuring a safe and secure environment for the children.

The police will also be focusing on other key areas such as child restraint systems, school buses, and cycling behaviour. Prevention experts will conduct 30 km/h speed limit campaigns at various elementary schools to emphasise the importance of adhering to reduced speed limits near schools.

Another important topic is parking behaviour near schools. Parking haphazardly can create additional hazards for schoolchildren, and the authorities are urging parents and guardians to park responsibly.

The issue of "Elterntaxis" (adult taxis), where parents drive their children right up to the classroom, can also pose potential risks. It is recommended that parents drop off their children at designated drop-off zones instead, allowing them to walk the rest of the way to school under supervision.

Sadly, in 2024, a total of 55 children were injured in accidents. Out of these, 31 were direct participants, and 24 were passengers. Two school route accidents were reported during the same year.

The city of Hamm and the Hamm Police are committed to making the streets safer for their youngest citizens. By working together and adhering to these safety measures, we can help ensure a smooth and safe start to the school year for all involved.

Caution on the Road: schools are reopening this week, so be mindful of children on the streets.