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It’s that time of year again! Kids everywhere are gearing up for another exciting school year. While back-to-school season is a time of new beginnings and fresh starts, it’s also a great opportunity to brush up on some essential back-to-school safety tips.

As a parent, you want to make sure your children are as safe as possible when they’re traveling to and from school. In this blog, we’ll discuss some top tips kids can use to stay safe while walking, biking or scooting in your neighborhood.

The New School Year is Right Around the Corner

As we launch into the new school year, it’s important to remember that your community will see increased school-related activities and pedestrians.

• When you’re driving in a school zone, be sure to obey the posted speed limit and watch for children who may be crossing the street, especially when school buses are present.
• Keep an eye out for crosswalk guards and security directing traffic in busy or crowded areas. It’s also a good idea to avoid making any sudden stops or turns, as this could cause an accident.
• Be extra cautious when backing up, and always look behind you before you start moving, even if you have a back-up camera. Unfortunately, back-up cameras have blind spots and don’t always see smaller children or pets.
• If you have to park in a school zone, make sure you’re not blocking the sidewalk or crosswalk. There are usually designated drop-off and pick-up areas for this purpose.

Do Your Kids Walk to School?

When your children are walking to and from school, there are a few things you can do to help them stay safe.

• Teach them to always look both ways before crossing the street and know the safe areas to cross when there is oncoming traffic.
• Children should also be aware of their surroundings at all times and avoid walking alone in areas that are not well lit or where there is no sidewalk.
• If they’re old enough, consider having them carry a cell phone so they can call you if they need help.
• Always keep emergency contact information in your child’s backpack.
• Help your children be aware of safe places to stop along their route if they need help.

Do Your Kids Bike or Scooter to School?

While you may be close enough to allow your kids to walk to school, they may prefer riding their bikes or scooter to get to their destination. While the safety tips and tricks above are still important for these commuters, here are a few extra safety tips for anyone rolling to school on wheels.

• Make sure they’re wearing a properly-fitting helmet. Head injuries are one of the most common injuries on a bicycle or scooter, so it’s important for children to wear helmets at all times.
• Teach them to always ride on the right side of the road, and to use hand signals when turning.
• Children should also be aware of any potential hazards, such as potholes, glass or other debris.
• Finally, remind them to obey all traffic laws, including stop signs and traffic lights. As they get closer to the school, they should follow the rules laid out by school security and officials to safely navigate the parking lot and school sidewalks.

As a parent, it’s important to make sure our children are safe and prepared when they’re traveling to and from school. Stay up-to-date on the most recent back-to-school safety procedures by visiting the National Safety Council’s website. In addition, be aware of your community guidelines on school safety.

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