Transport Minister Wants To Ensure A Safe Back to School
The Consejo de Seguridad Vial (Cosevi) and the Policía de Tránsito want to ensure a safe back to school next week, as the school year begins next Tuesday, February 7, by issuing some 11.000 students reflective stickers to be placed on clothing and backpacks, to allow them better visibility by drivers.

In addition, the ministra de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT), Karla González, will be issuing some 4.000 reflective vests to be used by adults who will be helping school children cross busy roads to get to and from school.

Minister González said there will be an increased Tránsito (traffic police) presence in and around schools all year round. Certain schools, without providing specifics, will have a higher police presence, the minister added.

González is also asking that pedestrians be more alert and take responsibility when crossing a street, asking both the school children and their parents to use the sidewalks and cross at safe points and not dash out into moving traffic.

The minister also hinted that her ministry is looking at making improvements to the infrastructure surrounding many schools around the country, including repairing or constructing sidewalks and bicycle paths and better signage.

The practiceof reducing speed when school children are present is seldom respected. Signs posted around schools drop the speed limit to 15 Kmh while students are present.

However, the work has to first obtain the approval of the Contraloría General de la República (Comptroller's office) before the MOPT can begin the work, the minister said.

The minister also added some recommendations for children and their parents so that they don't become another traffic statistic:

- Parents should make sure that their children know well the route to and from school

- Teach children to cross at corners and where there is good visibility

- Cross at traffic lights where they are available

- Teach children to walk facing traffic in places where there are no sidewalks

- Dress children with bright clothing and with reflectors

- Buckle up when travelling by car