Traffic signs near schools indicating the times when the road is closed contain so much data in small print that unless a driver practically stops to read the sign, it is difficult to read.

This is not a problem for residents and drivers who live in the area because they know about such signs, but for other drivers and visitors - including tourists - the situation could be rendered much easier, without compromising the safety of school children.

Some of these signs contain more information than what is indicated on page 77 of the Highway Code. In some cases such signs are placed after a junction where a driver might need to reverse or make a U-turn.

As long as drivers drive very slowly, there might not be any need for the road to be completely closed. In other countries roads near schools are not closed at all, but drivers are required to proceed at a lower speed as indicated on the sign.

A proper kind of traffic sign with flashing lights communicates more information to drivers during the time that the lights are flashing than the current signs.

Police officers, wardens or other authorized adults need to look after the safety of school children between such traffic signs, but the flashing lights make it practically impossible for drivers not to take extra care and drive very slowly, and if necessary stop,d near schools when children are getting in or out of the school.

A couple of weeks ago, a discussion programme on TV was addressing this issue together with other traffic matters, but none of the participants considered this alternative with reference to traffic signs near schools.

The Malta Automobile Club wishes to suggest that a discussion takes place concerning this alternative school traffic sign that seems to be working well in foreign countries.

The Ministry for Transport, the Local Councils, and the other authorities concerned may wish to consider whether it would be appropriate to introduce this kind of school traffic sign in Malta.

Alfred A. Farrugia

Malta Automobile Club