In an unique development from the concept of the well known ‘PC Flat’, The Isle of Man Constabulary are introducing a new tactic in the quest for road safety. ‘Flatkidz’ are life size cut outs of photographs of local children.
PC Andy Lloyd, Community Constable for Athol Ward, is heading the project, which is funded by Ellan Vannin Fuels. He came up with the idea following a number of local residents concerned about the speed of drivers within residential estates, namely Governors Hill and Willaston. This was backed up by his own observations when out walking the beat.
PC Lloyd Said “ After the success of PC Flat, I wanted to try something new and innovative, appealing to the better nature of motorists, especially in built up areas. Motorists travelling a little too quick within a residential estate will intuitively slow down when they see a child playing next to a road. Flatkidz will act as a reminder that hitting a child in a car at any speed can have tragic consequences”
Andy Sweetman of Ellan Vannin Fuels said; “This was such a great idea that we were happy to support the commissioning of the very first Flatkidz. Motorists cover thousands of miles a year here on the island, and from time to time we all need a little reminder to slow down.”
Flatkidz will initially be seen around the Douglas area, and it is hoped that they will be playing out in other neighbourhoods around the Island over the coming months.
Photo - PC 289 Andy Llloyd, Andy Sweetman of Ellan Vannin Fuels, and the Flatkidz.
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