Driveway Safety – Protecting our Little Ones

Driveway safety is a critical issue that requires our constant attention. By taking proactive steps and educating those around us, we can create a safer environment for our children and prevent these heart breaking accidents

Driveway Safety: Protecting Our Little Ones

Every week in Australia, the unthinkable happens: a child is run over in their driveway, often by a family member or friend. These tragic accidents predominantly involve children under five years of age and can occur even when vehicles are moving slowly. The familiarity of our homes should not make us complacent about the dangers that driveways pose to our young children.

Visibility Challenges

A significant factor in these accidents is visibility. Small children can be impossible to see from inside a car, especially if they are immediately behind it. Many vehicles have a large ‘blind space’ behind them, not just a ‘blind spot’. Even cars equipped with parking sensors or video cameras may not detect a small child in time to prevent an accident.

Preventive Measures

Here are some key steps to enhance driveway safety:

• Supervise Children: Always keep an eye on children when a vehicle is being moved. Hold their hand or carry them to ensure they are safe.
• Create Safe Play Areas: Encourage children to play in areas away from the driveway. The driveway is not a play area.
• Use Physical Barriers: Implement security doors, fencing, or gates to limit children’s access to the driveway.
• Educate and Inform: Teach children about the dangers of playing near driveways and the importance of staying clear of moving vehicles.
• Check Your Surroundings: Before moving a vehicle, walk around it to check for children or obstacles.
• Use Technology Wisely: Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s reversing aids and use them effectively.

Community Efforts

Organisations like Wide Bay Kids are dedicated to preventing injuries in children by providing practical safety information for parents and caregivers. They offer services like free car seat safety checks for parents to promote safety from a young age¹.

This article has been compiled from the valuable information provided by the Queensland Government Street Smart website.  For more detailed guidance and resources on keeping children safe in and around vehicles, please visit their website.

 Remember, awareness and vigilance are key to protecting our little ones. Let’s make safety a priority in every driveway.