Concerned parents have had their say after a council wrote to more than 50 schools in the borough about the dangers of idling vehicles, particularly during 'school runs.' Gedling Borough Council has written to the schools to ask for their support to educate parents about the problem, with concerns raised over the release of harmful pollutants into the air.
Children are said to be particularly at risk because they have smaller lungs and breathe more rapidly, as well as spending more time outdoors. Upon hearing about the warning, parents outside of Porchester Junior School, Carlton, say that they are largely supportive of actively trying to make people aware of the dangers of idling vehicles, with one woman stating that she is "embarrassed" that people still do it.
Studies have also shown that exposure to air pollution can lead to respiratory problems, such as asthma, coughs, bronchitis and other health issues. Schools across Gedling are now being asked for their support to educate parents on the importance of turning off their engines when parked, whether they are waiting to pick up or drop off their children, or parked near the school.
