As the leaves start to turn colour, and children are back in school, it is a good time to outline the importance of getting to and from school safely.
Driving in School Zones
When driving in school zones, reduce your speed and be prepared to stop at any time. Children are easily distracted and their size can make them difficult to see, especially when they step out from between parked vehicles or other visual obstructions. While crossing guards and crosswalks are helpful, children do not always cross at designated places, so quick reactions are sometimes necessary. Remind your children to stay off roads and never cross without first looking both ways.
School Buses
For children who take the bus to school, remind them to wait for the bus in a safe spot, away from the road. When crossing in front of a school bus, children must walk at least 10 feet (3 meters) in front of the nose of the bus, so the driver can easily see them. Too many children are injured or killed because the bus driver did not know they were crossing in front of the bus. And of course, drivers must never pass a school bus in any direction when the signal lights are flashing.
Walking to School
Many children walk to and from school, and it is important to discuss road safety rules with kids who take on this responsibility. Parents should help their children to find a safe and direct route to school. Children should stick to sidewalks whenever possible, and cross streets only at safe points, such as crosswalks or controlled intersections.
Bicycling to School
Some children take their bicycles to and from school. If doing so, they must wear a properly-fitting helmet and obey all traffic signs, signals, and rules. They need to ensure they ride predictably, on the right side of the road, and cross only at safe intersections. In the event that riding after dark is required, front and rear lights must be used and appropriate reflective clothing should be worn.
As Benjamin Franklin said, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When it comes to travelling to and from school, this could not be more accurate. Take the time to speak with your children about safety on a regular basis, to reflect the importance of the topic.
