In our modern world there is a massive amount of traffic on the roads, so it is more important than ever to be aware of the dangers of the road and use all your senses keep safe. Remember to always be sensible and keep aware when you are anywhere near roads. This means on both busy main roads and quieter local roads, all roads have the potential to be dangerous.

So remember to ‘Stop – Look – Listen’ and always follow the Green Cross Code.

The 'Green Cross' Code
First find a safe place to cross, then stop Safe places are subways, zebra and pelican crossings, traffic islands, traffic lights or where there is a traffic warden or lollipop person. If you cannot find a safe crossing, choose a place where you can see a long way down the road in both directions. Try not to cross near parked cars because you will not see traffic coming towards you, and it will not see you.

Stand on the pavement near the kerb
Do not stand on the very edge of the pavement.
Traffic often comes closer than you think and might knock you over.

Look all around for traffic and listen
Traffic may be coming from any direction, so look down every road (even round the corner). Listen well, because you can often hear traffic before you can see it. Keep your eyes open and listen all the time. (If you can hear the emergency services vehicle do not start to cross).

If traffic is coming, let it pass. Then look all around again
Always let traffic pass if it is near and you cannot cross safely. Look all around again and listen to make sure no other traffic is coming. Remember - if you are not sure, do not cross, stay on the pavement.

When there is no traffic coming near, walk straight across the road
Only cross when there is no traffic near. Do not cross unless there is a safe gap in the traffic and you are sure there is plenty of time. When it is safe to cross, walk straight across the road - do not run, you might trip over. Straight - means in a direct line, however, do not hesitate whilst crossing.

Keep looking and listening for traffic while you cross
All the way across the road, keep looking and listening just in case some traffic suddenly comes along.

Safety for Cyclists
 
If you’re a cycling fanatic you need to be careful on roads and around traffic, so please read the easy check list below to make sure your safe and you’re not breaking any rules of the road:

• Always use cycle lanes or cycle paths if you can.

• If you can’t use a cycle lane or cycle path, ride on the road in the same direction as the cars. Don't ride on the pavement.

• Always walk your bike across the road at the crossing.

• Always look behind you before turning and use hand signals to tell cars what you’re doing.

• Don't ride too close to parked cars, in case someone opens their door suddenly, and always watch out for cars turning or pulling out in front of you.

• Always ride single file, never next to another bike.

• Never carry your friends on your handlebars or on the back of your bike.