Parents and carers are being reminded to be vigilant when their children are travelling on the transport system following an increase in reported injuries.
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance has issued the warning with the number of safety incidents involving children on trains and stations increasing from 221 to 238 last year. Child injuries rose from 66 to 72.
“Please keep an eye on your little ones everywhere, but especially while travelling on our trains,” Mr Constance said.
“One moment of inattention can lead to a potentially fatal incident.
“We’ve seen some truly distressing moments involving children and nobody wants to go through the experience of a child slipping between the train and a platform.”
Sydney Trains Chief Executive Howard Collins said CCTV of a number of incidents on the network should act as a warning to those travelling with children.
“We need parents to set the safety example and please keep an eye on young ones around trains,” Mr Collins said.
“It’s school holidays and there are more families making use of our system, so we need to warn of the dangers.
“The edge of the platform and the gap between it and the train can be a potential risk for young kids. Hold their hand on the platform and when stepping on and off the train.
“If you’re travelling with a pram, keep a firm hold and always apply the pram brakes at the station and on the train.
“Don’t rush – allow plenty of time for your journey and you reduce the chance of an incident occurring.”
“We want catching a train to be enjoyable and exciting for young kids.
“If you’re travelling with children and you need any help at all, ask a Sydney Trains staff member. We’re here to help.”
