A primary school on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has implemented a ban on e-scooters within its premises due to safety concerns. The decision was prompted after an underage student riding an e-scooter without a helmet narrowly avoided a collision with a car. Queensland road regulations stipulate that children under 12 should not use such devices, while those aged between 12 and 16 must be supervised by an adult.
The school’s principal, Steven Moore, communicated the ban to parents following the incident, emphasizing the risks associated with inappropriate use of personal mobility devices. Moore highlighted the potential severity of injuries in case of an accident, particularly for children under 12. Consequently, the school prohibited the presence of e-scooters and e-bikes on its grounds, urging parents to ensure their children wear helmets when riding such devices.
The move by Nirimba State Primary School has garnered support from parents, with many lauding it as a necessary step towards safeguarding children. This sentiment was echoed by a mother whose daughter sustained life-threatening injuries in an e-scooter accident, advocating for stricter age restrictions on e-scooter usage. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by these devices, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures.
While Nirimba State Primary School is not alone in its ban on e-scooters, with reports suggesting that neighboring schools have similar policies in place, the broader issue of student road safety remains a concern. The Department of Education has emphasized the role of individual principals in addressing safety issues, underscoring the importance of ensuring students’ safe commute to and from school.
Commenting on the prevalence of e-scooter use among children, P&Cs Queensland chair Donagh Freestun acknowledged the convenience these devices offer but expressed reservations about their safety. With a growing number of incidents involving e-scooter riders, including near misses and accidents, there is a pressing need to prioritize student safety and compliance with legal age restrictions.
Pat Murphy, president of the Queensland Association of State School Principals, emphasized the need for parental adherence to existing regulations concerning e-scooter use, particularly for primary students under the age of 12. The overarching goal is to ensure the safe transportation of students to and from school daily, underscoring the collective responsibility shared by parents, schools, and communities.
As the debate surrounding e-scooter safety continues, the focus remains on mitigating risks and promoting responsible usage among children. The incident at Nirimba State Primary School serves as a cautionary tale, prompting a reevaluation of age restrictions and safety protocols governing e-scooter use in educational settings. Ultimately, the welfare of students is paramount, necessitating proactive measures to prevent potential accidents and ensure a secure school environment.
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