As everyone is heading back to school, it is extremely important that students, staff, and parents take proper safety precautions before, during, and after school. Tragic headlines give today's teachers and parents a lot to worry about when it comes to school safety, but it's important to remember that the everyday safety concerns often get overlooked. From 2008-2017, 264 students were killed making their way to and from school. The majority of those children weren't on a bus. They were either walking, waiting for the bus, biking, or in another vehicle. As schools go back into session it's important they re-evaluate not just primarily transportation concerns but all of school safety to maintain a healthy school environment.
Walking to School
- Walk on the sidewalk if one is available. If the students have to walk on a street, then make sure they are walking on the side that faces the traffic.
- Before crossing the street, students should stop and look left, right, and then left again to see if cars are approaching.
- Have students make eye contact with drivers before crossing and always cross streets at crosswalks or intersections.
- Always stay alert and avoid distracted walking.
Riding a Bicycle to School
- Make sure students know to ride on the right side of the road, with traffic, in a single file line.
- Come to a complete stop before crossing the street, walk bikes across the street.
- Stay alert and avoid distracted driving.
- Make sure students always wear a helmet and proper clothing.
Riding the bus to school
- Students should stand six feet or 3 giant steps away from the curb while waiting for the bus.
- If students must cross the street in front of the bus, teach them to sit or walk on the side of the road until they are 10 feet ahead of the bus. Students should always be able to see the bus driver while crossing.
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