Schindler has recently launched a unique and innovative program in Mariendorf, where children between the ages of six and twelve are able to obtain a "driver's license" for elevators and escalators. This exciting initiative aims to provide young ones with essential knowledge and skills to navigate elevators and escalators safely and confidently.

Schindler employees Hanna Moritz and Jan Steeger recently noticed a growing concern among parents regarding their children's fear and uncertainty surrounding escalators and elevators. Driven by the desire to foster safety and awareness, Hanna and Jan conceptualized the idea of offering children a hands-on educational experience through a specially designed driver's license program. The response from the community has been overwhelming, with the training sessions fully booked until the end of the year. Over the past three months, around 80 children have enthusiastically participated in these engaging one-hour courses.

During the training sessions, children learn a range of safety measures and best practices. For example, they are taught about the importance of tying shoelaces securely and learn never to bring skateboards or scooters onto escalators, ensuring that they avoid tripping hazards and maintain a safe environment for themselves and others. One memorable aspect of the program involves a delightful stuffed dog named Julchen, who is used as a demonstration model to teach the children the correct way for dogs to use escalators and elevators.

The intricacies of elevator mechanics are also covered during the training. For example, they learn that the brushes along the side of escalators are not for shining shoes, as some of the kids suggest, but rather to protect the machine from damage.

As the program draws to a close, the children receive their "driver's licenses" for elevators and escalators, proudly celebrating their newfound knowledge and expertise. The initiative is a fantastic idea for providing important safety education and teaching children habits that they will remember throughout their life, whilst also providing a fun experience!

Emanuel Pawletta, the head of the security department at Schindler, shared his insights into the significance of the initiative. He emphasizes that while most children have encountered elevators and escalators in their daily lives, some have unfortunately experienced accidents due to inadequate knowledge and understanding of how to use these machines safely. The driver's license program aims to equip children with the necessary know-how to prevent such accidents in the future.