Father fights against speeders for safe streets in Lützlow with a dummy speed camera

Father fights against speeders for safe streets in Lützlow with a dummy speed camera

In Lützlow, a quiet place where the family community feels close-knit, there are pressing safety concerns - especially for the children. Swen Glasenapp, a committed father and master carpenter, has an uneasy feeling due to the increasing speed of road users when his two youngest children (7 and 12 years old) play in front of the door. “There’s something going on,” he said as he reported on the dangerous situation, which has been made worse by the newly paved road. Many drivers studiously ignore the 50 km/h speed limit, and that's not just a minor annoyance; it is a real threat.

A disturbing example from the past: a 40-ton truck raced through the narrow streets at over 80 km/h. “There are already over 400 signatures for a speed limit of 30 km/h,” says Glasenapp, “but the only measure was that the town entrance sign was moved by 25 meters.” Alarmed by the ongoing danger, the community of residents had been paying for a footpath for years; but this has not been built to date. To increase road safety, the family resorted to creative means: They attached a ball to the fence and set up life-size dolls - measures that only had a limited effect.

An unusual approach: speed camera dummy

In his effort to draw more attention to the speeders, Glasenapp built a deceptively realistic speed camera dummy. This caused some drivers to actually start braking. “It's crazy that some drivers only hit the brakes when they get to the church in order to protect their own car,” he says. But the police also stopped by because the dummy was placed a little too close to the edge of the road, which led to its removal. The police nevertheless mentioned Glasenapp's initiative positively and showed understanding for the urgent demand for a speed reduction to 30 km/h. Perhaps, it is hoped, a “real speed camera” will be installed more often in the area in the future to improve traffic safety.

The dangers of road traffic are a common topic, especially when it comes to children. According to the recommendations of the Children's health Children under seven years of age should only be transported in special bicycle seats and the person transporting them must be at least 16 years old. Special child bike trailers are also a safe alternative and offer space for up to two small passengers. The right protection is essential, which is why wearing a helmet when cycling is not only recommended, but firmly established as a principle.

Mobility for the little ones

The KFV Guide for the safe mobility of 6 to 14 year olds not only supports schools and communities, but also parents in raising awareness of the risks in road traffic at an early stage. “Healthy active mobility must be promoted so that children benefit from both health and environmental protection,” the guide says. In order to be safe on the road, it is important that children of primary school age learn to correctly classify the traffic situation and recognize possible risks. Getting to school often represents the first major challenge that should be overcome successfully with parental help.

It is clear: Lützlow and many other places need more than just traffic signs and spacers. With joint efforts - both by parents like Swen Glasenapp as well as by the police and the community - children's safety in road traffic can be improved. After all, our children are the most vulnerable road users and deserve a safe space to explore their surroundings.