Believe it or not, it's time to start thinking about going back to school. Whether children walk, ride their bicycle or take the bus to school, it is vitally important that they, and the motorists around them, take proper safety precautions. Here are a few tips to stay safe:
Walkers
- Walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you must walk in the street, walk facing oncoming traffic.
- Before crossing the street, stop and look left, right and left again to see if cars are coming.
- Never dart out in front of a parked car.
- Parents should practice walking to school with their child, crossing streets at crosswalks when available.
- Never walk while texting or talking on the phone.
- Do not walk while using headphones.
Bike Riders
- Always wear a helmet that is fitted and secured properly.
- Children need to know the rules of the road: Ride single file on the right side of the road, come to a complete stop before crossing the street and walk the bike across.
- Watch for opening car doors and other hazards.
- Use hand signals when turning.
- Wear bright-colored clothing.
Bus Riders
- Teach children the proper way to get on and off the bus.
- Line up six feet away from the curb as the bus approaches.
- If seat belts are available, buckle up.
- Wait for the bus to stop completely before standing.
- Do not cross in front of the bus if possible, or walk at least 10 feet ahead until you can see the other drivers.
Drivers
- Do not block crosswalks.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and take extra care in school zones.
- Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians.
- Never pass a bus loading or unloading children.
- The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them to safely enter and exit the bus.
- Avoid distractions like being on your phone or changing your radio.