AN interactive road safety computer game is being rolled out across Sandwell’s primary schools to teach youngsters the hazards of highways.

The game, which was launched last week at Burnt Tree Primary School, has been designed by Sandwell Council, the LearnPlay Foundation and 3D Native and features a teddy bear who the child walks through a series of potential hazards.

By playing the game, children learn how to cross the road safely, how to use a pedestrian crossing and how to negotiate driveways, parked cars and different types of junctions.

The game, which is aimed at five to seven-year-olds, provides certificates for each child as they complete a module, as well as learning outcomes for teachers and information for children to take home to discuss with their parents and carers.

For more information about the game, which is being made available to all schools in Sandwell for free, visit www.digitalroadsafety.com.

Councillor David Hosell, cabinet member for highways and environment, said: “In the past 10 years we have reduced the number of casualties on Sandwell’s roads by 39 per cent overall, and the number of children hurt has almost halved.

“The game is yet another tool to help us reduce the number of accidents on our roads – and the children really love it.

“I've been amazed how proficient the children are with computers and that's why we've launched the game - children learn more and more through technology these days and that's why the game is so effective.”