Kisii central Base Commander Joseph Nzomo has advised students to observe traffic rules while using roads.
Speaking on Tuesday at Kisii Primary School when he was training the pupils on the precautionary measure to undertake when using roads, Nzomo noted most of the accidents experienced in roads are as a result of ignorance and therefore asked pupils to be in forefront in protecting their lives.
“When you are crossing the road you should look left, right and then left before you cross, and ensure you are walking on the pedestrian path to avoid being hit by a motorbike or vehicle,” he said.
The commander asked pupils to be careful with strangers and report anybody infringing their rights to the police for action to be taken against them.
He also advised them to board motorbikes or vehicles of the people they know in order to reduce cases of child-theft that he said in most cases are orchestrated by strangers.
He was responding to a question from a pupil on what they should do to avert kidnapping incidents and child abuse in general.
“I advise you to never board any motorbike or vehicle that you don’t know well. However, if you board one, be careful and scream when you realise you are being diverted from where you are going,” he advised pupils.
He added: “On sitting position, you can either sit sideways or front-ward, as long as you ensure you are stable so that you don’t fall if you are using a motorbike.”
However, Nzomo warned motorists against abusing the school-going children stating that those found doing so will be arrested.
“I have heard of cases where motorists entice young girls with goodies like buying them mandazi and chips, and carrying them free of charge for sexual gain. However, I know not all are doing that because there are some who have dignity. Am only sending a stern warning that those who will be caught will be arrested and charged in court, he said.
According to the commander, Kisii primary school was the first to be sensitised with road usage precautions stating they are targeting the larger Kisii County in a three day sensitisation campaign dubbed UN Global Safety Campaign that started on May 4 and ends on May 7.
He challenged parents, teachers and other education stakeholders to sensitise students on preventive measures against road carnages and other incidents involving teenagers.