Children on the streets Published Oct. 17, 2007 By Brig. Gen. John W. Hesterman 48th Fighter Wing commander ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- COMPLAINT: My husband and I have recently moved on base. I have noticed a scary amount of children playing and riding bikes (many without helmets) in the streets of Liberty Village without their parents or other adult supervision. I get off work around the time kids are getting out of school and Liberty Village seems to be where everyone must walk through. Children are not getting out of the way of cars. I drive very cautiously to avoid them, however when they see cars coming they do not get on the side walk; they just continue to walk where they are. There is a path that goes around the community; why isn't the path being used for children walking and playing? There is a park in the middle of the development as well. There are hardly ever parents around supervising their children, and the children aren't paying attention when playing in the streets. The roads in this neighborhood are very narrow if there is a car parked in the street or a car coming the other way it's only a matter of time before someone's child gets hurt. I am terrified to drive after school or on the weekends because there are kids everywhere not paying attention. RESPONSE: Thank you for your letter. When issues arise that concern our children, we want to make sure that their best interests and safety are at the forefront of our attentions. First and foremost, we do expect people to abide by the rules for bicycles. Appropriate headgear is mandatory for all cyclists. All riders must wear an approved safety helmet when operating a bicycle or a human-powered vehicle (skates and/or skateboards). Enforcement of these rules begins with parental supervision. Sponsors are responsible for their children while they are out of their direct supervision. Children are not allowed to play in areas that may be dangerous or harmful (e.g. construction areas, main roads/intersections). Minor family members should be closely supervised at all times. Children age six years and younger must be under constant and direct supervision which requires a parent, responsible adult or qualified baby sitter to be within a suitable physical proximity where they can intervene at a moment's notice. To help curb the issues with unsupervised children and lack of headgear, please report violations to Security Forces. Issues concerning parental supervision can also be addressed through the Family Advocacy program. Together, I'm confident we can continue to provide Lakenheath children with the safest environment possible. If you have any further concerns, please contact our school's liaison officer, Dr. Ninetta Brown, at 226-5078.