Brooklyn Bensonhurst City Councilor, Wen Yi Zhuang, hosted representatives from the 62nd, 66th, 68th, and 72nd precincts of the city police in her new office yesterday (30th) to discuss recent incidents involving car collisions with children and caretakers.
Just last week, a 5-year-old boy in Queens was struck and killed by an SUV. Earlier this month, an 8-year-old boy was killed in a car accident, while his 10-year-old brother was injured. This year, over ten children in New York City have been either killed or seriously injured in vehicle accidents. As a mother of two young daughters, Councilor Wen Yi Zhuang convened community leaders and representatives from the New York City Police Department to discuss traffic safety issues concerning children and caregivers.
Eddie Lau, the commander of the 62nd precinct, emphasized that with the arrival of summer, there will be an increase in pedestrians and drivers on the streets, making it crucial to be more aware of one’s surroundings. When parents take their children out, they should try to keep them close to prevent them from running onto the road unexpectedly. Lau also pointed out the danger of parents walking with their children while being distracted by their phones. In addition to pedestrian safety, he also advocated for cyclists to wear helmets.
Councilor Zhuang collaborated with Henry Lin, the owner of Happy Toys, to distribute 100 tethered backpacks to parents. Those in need can pick them up at her office located at 6514 20th Avenue, Bensonhurst.
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This news article translates and expands on the recent meeting held by Councilor Wen Yi Zhuang to address the pressing issue of child and caregiver safety amidst a rising number of incidents involving vehicle collisions. Promoting awareness for parents and the community at large, the discussion focused on practical tips for ensuring the well-being of children in busy city settings.
The collaboration with local businesses like Happy Toys highlights the importance of community involvement in tackling safety concerns. By distributing tethered backpacks, Councilor Zhuang and Mr. Lin aim to provide a tangible solution for parents to keep their children close while out in public spaces, reducing the risk of accidents.
The involvement of precinct representatives and law enforcement underscores the collaborative effort needed to address traffic safety comprehensively. Recommendations such as staying vigilant in crowded areas, minimizing distractions, and promoting helmet use for cyclists are key steps towards creating a safer environment for all residents, especially the most vulnerable members of the community – our children.
Councilor Zhuang’s proactive approach and partnership initiatives with local businesses demonstrate a commitment to implementing practical solutions that benefit the community at large. By fostering dialogue and taking concrete actions, such as distributing safety equipment, she is working towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment for families in Brooklyn and beyond.