Every School Pupil Should Sport a Bright Orange ‘Uniform’

Says GEM Motoring Assist

New Element of ‘Keep British Summer Time’ Campaign

GEM Motoring Assist, the not for profit organisation concerned with the safety of all road users, says that every school in the United Kingdom should adopt a new  ‘uniform’ for the autumn and winter months of brilliant fluorescent orange.

GEM, that used to be known as the Guild of Experienced Motorists, says the Government 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 murky autumn and winter afternoons and this is the basis for the orange ‘uniform’ argument.

Chief Executive of GEM, David Williams, explained: “ Bright orange tabards or over vests are very inexpensive items these days 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 – tired but full of fun.

“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.”

The essential orange uniform is an element of GEM’s campaign to persuade the Government that clocks should not ‘fall back’ each October to ‘spring forward’ when the days get naturally longer. “We need days as bright as possible when children are walking home,” said David. “This is a simple way to save life and injury and totally logical.” British Summer Time ends on October 26 this year.

The GEM charitable arm produces free of charge safety booklets for the public, recognises those that work for safer roads, funds essential research and assist with campaigns.

In addition, GEM Motoring assist provides a number of award winning services for motorists including roadside recovery that has been voted number one by a leading motoring magazine.

For more details visit www.motoringassist.com or call 01342 824575.

End

October 2008

Press Information: David Williams, MBE, Chief Executive, GEM Motoring Assist on 01342 825676 (office) or 07711 450560 (mobile). For downloadable images and more information visit www.motoringassist.com and go to the Press Centre.