Once upon a time there was a boy named Ivan. His parents gave him a puppy called Mate, who was a clever and affectionate dog. The boy would go to school, and the adults would go to work. But Mate would stay home alone, feeling sad and lonely. There was nothing to do but sit by the window all day long, watching the cars and people passing by. The windows looked out onto the road, where a traffic light had been installed.
One day Ivan and his mum were in a hurry and didn't close the door behind them. Mate was so curious that he decided to go out onto the street and find his owners. The dog looked around, but didn't see any familiar faces.
They must be on the other side of the street.
Mate thought to himself.
But how do I get there? How do I cross the road when cars are speeding along?
The dog looked up and saw a stern red light. People were gathering on the kerb. They probably needed to get to the other side too. The red light went out, the green light came on, and all the pedestrians stepped onto the road. Mate ran across too.
His joy knew no bounds—on the other side of the street, Mate met Ivan and his mum.
The boy picked up his beloved puppy in his arms and began to explain:
You see, there are three lights there—that's a traffic light. This is a busy place, and you can't cross the road without it. Remember: if the red light is on—stop and wait. As soon as the green light comes on—look both ways and cross confidently. Always cross the road only at pedestrian crossings.
And how do you know all this?
The dog asked in surprise.
Well, I'm older now. We learn these road safety rules at school.
The boy replied.
And so Mate made friends with the traffic light and learned the rules for crossing to the other side of the street.
