PLAN FOR JUVENILE PATROLS

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 260, 30 July 1941, Page 10

PLAN FOR JUVENILE PATROLS

• Traffic Near Schools

Endorsement of the scheme for providing school patrols at road crossings on busy thoroughfares near schools was given by the Road Safety Council yesterday. The scheme has been proposed by the Transport Department after consultation with education boards, local authorities and motorists’ organizations.

The question was discussed at an earlier meeting of the Road Safety Council, but there was tbeu a doubt as to the legal liability of the child patrol, bis parents, the school, or the local body. The Crown Law Office has given an opinion that such liability is remote.

The plan of the school patrol system

Patrols may be established at ordinary pedestrian crossings or at temporary crossings at schools. Patrols will be selected by their teachers; assistance in training will I>e provided by traffic Inspectors or qualified persons.

Two patrols will be ou duty at a time, one on each footpath, and each carrying a sign bearing the word “Stop.” . Drivers must obey the stop signal. A booklet will be prepared by the Transport Department, in collaboration with the Education Department® To indemnify teachers and patrol officers in the event of accident, however remote, the Government is to be asked to arrange au insurance cover in respect of each school patrol crossing. The patrol officers will be provided with waterproof capes and a distinctive uniform.