Image: TWFRS
Emergency services in the north east are pleading with parents to park more responsibly during the school run – saying congested roads are putting lives at risk.
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) has released footage highlighting the challenges it faces as a result of illegal and inappropriate parking.
The video shows a number of their appliances struggling to navigate through the streets during a blue-light run at school drop off time.
Causing chaos on the school run
Give this video a watch and see if you can spot what the problem is… 🤔
Every year we have the same issue around our region’s schools – inconsiderate parking at drop-off and pick up time
Read more https://t.co/Dza2DFNTU9 pic.twitter.com/uat0vQKmW9
— Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (@Tyne_Wear_FRS) October 13, 2022
Jonny Ramanayake, a TWFRS station manager, said: “Inconsiderate parking on any street can slow down our response to an incident. If we can’t get through in an emergency, the incident we are going to could deteriorate significantly.
“House fires can spread rapidly – every second counts. Ask yourself whether the seconds you save by parking inconsiderately are worth more than the seconds you could cost us responding to a serious incident?”
Before the schools broke up for the summer holidays, the service conducted a number of simulated blue-light runs at some of the most complained about schools in Sunderland.
Cllr Kevin Johnston, Sunderland City Council’s cabinet member for dynamic city, said: “Parking restrictions outside of schools exist for a reason; to keep children safe as they enter and leave school.
“Parking in these restricted zones can cause all kinds of problems from blocking pedestrians’ views of the roads to preventing emergency vehicles from accessing the school if needed.
“Parents can be tempted to park where they shouldn’t when they’re in a hurry, because ‘it’s only for a moment’, but inconsiderate and dangerous parking puts the safety of children, pedestrians and drivers at risk.
“Remember – anyone who parks irresponsibly is a danger to others and can be penalised.”
The video just looks like a normal day outside almost any school. Unfortunately (very unfortunately) nothing unusual here and the congestion shown is quite ‘mild’ compared to some schools.
Pat, Wales
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