False sense of security

 

   Some traffic control signs placed in neighborhoods, designed with the intent to provide security and safety for the families who live there, can often have the exact opposite result. The best example of this type of sign is the one which reads “Children At Play.”
“Children At Play” Signs Not Officially Recognized
National standards, Ohio law and the Wayne County Engineer do not recognize the “Children At Play” signs for a number of reasons:
  1. There is no evidence to show these signs help reduce pedestrian accidents or lower speeds.
  2. These signs encourage parents and children to believe they have added protection in the neighborhood.
  3. Federal standards do not support the use of these signs because the signs suggest that it is acceptable behavior for children to play in streets. Children should not be encouraged to play in the street.

Warning Signs
Warning signs are most effective when used sparingly and are intended to advise motorists of an unusual or unexpected condition ahead. These signs have little value as they have become overused.

National studies have shown that many signs which warn of normal conditions in residential areas fail to improve safety. Since children live on nearly every residential block, there would have to be signs on each street. Blocks with no signs could have the effect of suggesting no children live in that neighborhood.

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