This week, many children grabbed their book bags and headed back to school for the start of a new year. Whether your children take the bus, walk, bike or are driven, it’s important to make sure the correct safety precautions are taken to ensure a safe arrival. Review these 16 steps with your child to prepare them for the year ahead.
Bus Riders:
- While on the bus, keep hands inside the windows and talk quietly as to avoid distracting the driver.
- Remain seated until the bus has come to a full stop, allowing you to exit.
- When crossing the street, always cross in front of the bus and at least ten feet ahead. Also, wait for the driver to single you over, indicating traffic is clear.
- Never attempt to retrieve an item from under the bus. If something does fall beneath, report it to the driver.
- Parents: Get to know the other people at your bus stop and be mindful of any strangers or new faces.
Walkers:
- Avoid distractions while walking such as texting or listening to loud music with headphones.
- When available, always use a sidewalk. If a sidewalk is not present, walk on the side of the road facing traffic.
- Prepare for poor weather by having an umbrella on hand or extra layers of clothing for the cold.
Bike Riders:
- Wear brightly colored clothing to make yourself easily seen by drivers, especially in the early mornings.
- Know the rules of the road and understand that you are sharing them with drivers.
- Use hand signals while making turns.
- Be mindful of sudden obstacles, such as car doors opening or a car pulling onto the road.
Teen Drivers:
- Give yourself ample time in the morning to prevent speeding or reckless driving.
- Be aware of pedestrians and school zones, always yielding to walkers in crosswalks.
- Never pass a school bus that has its stop sign out, with no exceptions.
- Eliminate distractions such as texting, eating or playing with the radio. Distracted driving, especially in a school zone, is reckless driving.
So there you have it, simple tips that can make everyone’s morning commute much smoother and safer. Have a great school year!
