As the summer break comes to a close and the school year begins anew, the roads become busier with students walking to and from school, buses making their rounds, and parents driving their children to class. This increase in traffic, combined with the excitement and anxiety of a new school year, can create potentially hazardous situations on the roads. Both pedestrians and drivers must be mindful of safety, especially during the first week back when everyone is adjusting to their new routines.
Here are some essential back-to-school safety tips to help ensure that everyone gets to school and back home safely.
For Pedestrians:
- Use Crosswalks and Traffic Signals: Always cross the street at designated crosswalks or intersections. Never jaywalk or cross the street in the middle of the block. Please pay attention to traffic signals and only cross when it’s safe. Even if you have the right of way, look both ways before stepping onto the road.
- Stay Visible: Wearing bright, reflective clothing, especially during the early morning or late afternoon, helps drivers see you more easily. For younger children, consider adding reflective tape to backpacks or jackets.
- Avoid Distractions: It’s easy to get distracted by your phone, music, or even friends, but staying alert is essential for safety. Keep your head up and stay aware of your surroundings, especially when crossing the street.
- Walk on Sidewalks: If there is a sidewalk, always use it. If a sidewalk is unavailable, walk on the side of the road facing oncoming traffic. This allows you to see vehicles approaching and allows you to react if necessary.
- Make Eye Contact with Drivers: Before crossing the street, try to make eye contact with the drivers to ensure they see you. Never assume a driver has seen you or will stop just because you are in a crosswalk.
- Be Cautious Around School Buses: When a school bus is stopped with its lights flashing and stop sign extended, it’s illegal for vehicles to pass. Ensure to stay clear of the bus and wait until the driver signals that it’s safe to cross.
For Drivers:
- Slow Down in School Zones: Speed limits in school zones are reduced for a reason—children are unpredictable and can dart out into the street unexpectedly. Always obey the posted speed limits and be prepared to stop at a moment’s notice.
- Be Extra Cautious Near Crosswalks: When approaching a crosswalk, slow down and be prepared to stop if pedestrians are waiting to cross. Children may not always follow the rules and could suddenly step onto the road.
- Watch for School Buses: When a school bus is stopped with its lights flashing and stop sign extended, all traffic must come to a halt—regardless of the direction you’re coming from. This law is in place to protect children as they get on and off the bus.
- Limit Distractions: Distracted driving is dangerous anytime, especially in school zones or near bus stops. Put your phone away, avoid eating, and focus on the road.
- Be Patient During the First Week: The first week of school is often chaotic, with new routines, routes, and schedules being established. Traffic might be heavier, and children and parents may still be adjusting to their routines. Stay patient, give yourself extra time to reach your destination, and remember that a few extra minutes of your time can prevent an accident.
- Yield to Pedestrians: Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks. Always yield to them, even if it seems like they’re taking their time. Remember, children are still learning the rules of the road and may not be as quick or aware as adults.
- Respect School Crossing Guards: School crossing guards are there to ensure the safety of children and other pedestrians. Always follow their signals and instructions, and never attempt to drive through a crossing while the guard is still on the road.
A Shared Responsibility
Safety on the road is a shared responsibility between pedestrians and drivers. As we all adjust to the new school year, let’s commit to being more aware, patient, and cautious. By following these back-to-school safety tips, we can help ensure that every student arrives at school and returns home safely each day.
Remember, a few extra moments to practice safety could be the difference between a close call and a tragedy. Let’s all do our part to keep the roads safe this school year!
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