In August, SafeKids USA sponsors Back to School Safety Month. It’s a reminder for motorists to be aware of children walking to school or waiting at bus stops. Back to School Safety Month is also a good time to talk to your kids about how to be safe on their way to and from school.
SafeKids USA provides a great list of tips for both motorists and school children:
For Motorists:
- Slow down and be especially alert in the residential neighborhoods and school zones
- Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs
- Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully
- Watch for children on and near the road in the morning and after school hours
- Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings. Put down your phone and don’t talk or text while driving
For Kids:
- They should cross the street with an adult until they are at least 10 years old
- Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks
- Never run out into the streets or cross in between parked cars
- Make sure they always walk in front of the bus, where the driver can see them
Remember, if you’re child rides his or her back to school, strap a helmet on to prevent injury in case of a spill. Also make sure children know their home phone number and address in case they need to contact you.
In addtion to these steps, we recommend stocking your child with hand sanitizer and tissues. While most classrooms provide both of these to help reduce the risk of spreading sickness, it never hurts to be extra prepared.
What other back to school safety tips do you talk about with your kids?
