As summer draws to a close and children start heading back to school, family life can get pretty hectic. It's important to remember – and share with your children – some key tips that will help keep them safe and healthy throughout the school year.

 

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.

 

Walkers

Walk on the sidewalk; if there is no sidewalk and you must walk in the street, walk facing 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: Practice walking to school with your 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 6 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, Share the Road

Don't 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

 

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