School, Kids and Safety

We all need to watch our for our children, but here are some reminders to share to keep everyone away from harm as school starts up this August.

Reminders for Parents

Be careful backing up. Your kids are faster than you and may slip behind your vehicle within seconds. Make sure everyone is accounted for before backing up and out of the driveway - especially during the morning rush.

Teach kids what their responsibility is as a pedestrian. Review crosswalk signs and teach them to be respectful of drivers while sharing the road.

Assign play areas for children that will keep them away from driveways, streets and other hazards. By giving them physical boundaries, they will be able to enjoy their space within these restrictions much more.

Remember to stop for school buses. If you are traveling in the opposite direction on a four lane road, you do not need to stop but should proceed with caution. Driving privileges will be suspended for 30 days if you are convicted of illegally passing a stopped school bus. It is 60 days if you receive two convictions within three years.

Reminders of Kids

Remember what the traffic signs mean for pedestrians. If the WALK sign is on and not flashing, you may cross and will have time to reach the other side of the intersection. If the WALK sign IS flashing, then you should not enter the roadway. This means that the pedestrian right-of-way will end and you cannot pass to the other side. When crossing at any place other than a marked or unmarked crosswalk, pedestrians must give the right-of-way to drivers. This includes between closely spaced intersections with traffic signals.

Back-to-School Safety for Everyone

Test the school walking route with your child before school starts. Walk with them and show them routes with fewer streets to cross and use intersections with crossing guards.

Remind children again of traffic signs and to be especially careful in rain, fog and snow - particularly if riding a bike.

Make sure your kids have neighbors or friends to walk with. If dropping them off at school, pull up as close to the entrance as possible and wait until they are inside - EVERY TIME.

Don't let your child wear clothing with his or her name on it. A child will tend to pay attention to anyone calling him or her by name.

Make sure your child learns his of her address and telephone number at an early age. A second phone number of a friend or relative is also helpful.

Teach your child never to talk to strangers or accept rides or gifts from strangers. Remember, a stranger is anyone you or your child doesn't know well or doesn't trust.

If your child is home for a few hours after school, set up rules for locking doors and windows, answering the door or telephone, and make sure he or she checks in with you or a neighbor you both trust.

Safe roads, safe kids, peace of mind. You can't beat it. Have a great school year!!