From the age of seven, the six rules of the Green Cross Code should be explained.

1. Think first, find a safe place to cross then stop
2. Stand on the pavement near the kerb
3. Using your eyes and ears, look all around for traffic and listen
4. Wait until it's safe to cross.  If traffic is coming let it pass, look all around again
5. Look and listen again.  Where there is no traffic near walk straight across the road
6. Arrive alive, keep looking and listening for traffic while you cross

When parents are sure their children know and understand the Green Cross Code, they should let them start by crossing the quiet roads where they have been practising.  The child should be watched and tested before being allowed to cross alone.

Once children are ready to make the journey to school alone, risk of accidents can be reduced further by making them easily seen, bright or flourescent clothes show up best by day, especially in dull or misty weather, but flourescent clothing does not work after dark, reflective clothing does.