Primary school aged children across South Australia have made important steps towards a healthier future by participating in National Walk Safely to School Day today.

National Walk Safely to School Day is a community initiative that aims to raise awareness of the health, road safety, transport and environmental benefits that regular walking (especially to and from school) can provide for long-term well-being of our children.

Now in its 23rd year, the annual event has joined forces with National Road Safety Week (15 – 22 May) to further draw the spotlight on road safety and support the importance of regular walking.

Hundreds of schools participate in the event around the country each year, with many South Australian primary schools taking part.

The day also aims to promote a healthier environment, as walking to school creates less dependency on cars and public transport.

Another key message that the day aims to achieve is road safety, executed by promoting reduced traffic around school drop-off and pick-up areas and education around crossing the road safely.

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Attributable to Minister for Police and Emergency Services Joe Szakacs

National Walk Safely to School Day is an undeniably crucial educational opportunity to enforce messages of road safety and leading an active lifestyle.

As South Australia’s road toll continues to rise this year, organising the day during National Road Safety Week serves as a purposeful and timely reminder to people of all ages to minimise distractions and keep safe while driving and walking beside the road.

Being distracted by your phone while crossing the road is one killer mistake that too many pedestrians are making every day.

Attributable to Minister for Education, Training and Skills Blair Boyer

National Walk Safely to School Day is a great way to encourage an active and healthy lifestyle; and one that can be done with the whole family.

Research shows that children who are regularly physically active are healthier and perform better academically, with walking one of the simplest exercises to take part in.

It’s essential we use opportunities, such as National Walk Safely to School Day, to teach young children about the importance of following road safety rules, holding adult’s hands and being safe in carparks and along footpaths.