Safe kids should glow in the dark

Oct 15 2008 Steve Hughes

Safe kids should glow in the dark

YOUNGSTERS should be persuaded to put safety before style and wear so-called fluorescent uniforms when the clocks go back.

This is the view of GEM Motoring Assist, which was formerly known as the Guild of Experienced Motorists.

It argues against the basic concept of changing the clocks twice a year but says that for as long as it continues youngsters should raise their visibility to motorists in the dark.

GEM chief executive David Williams, says: "The Government's reticence to keep British Summer Time all year long is causing deaths and hundreds of injuries to youngsters on their way home from school on dark winter afternoons and this is the basis for the orange 'uniform' argument.

'Bright orange tabards or over-vests are very inexpensive and make a real visibility difference. Parents and school staff should check they are worn over jumpers, blazers and coats when children and young adults set off on their way home after school or college because it is a very dangerous time of day.

'At the very least they should be wearing reflective arm bands and shoulder belts.

"We know that young people today are very style conscious and may well resist the idea but it is a concept of personal safety we are beginning to win with cycle helmets.'

British Summer Time ends on October 26.