More than 50 million children returned to school this fall, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission in Washington, D.C. That means more traffic, busier rush hours, and a greater need for patience while driving.
At this time of year drivers are likely to encounter things like stopped school buses, children on bicycles and scooters, and more pedestrian traffic. Unfortunately, this may sometimes translate into more accidents involving our young people.
In light of our continuing emphasis on safety issues, we thought that this month it may be a good reminder to review some important back to school safety tips!
School Bus Safety:
- Make sure your child has a safe place to wait for the bus.
- Instruct your child to stay away from the bus until it comes to a complete stop.
- Upon exiting the bus it is important that the child move to a sidewalk or other area that is away from traffic and out of the street.
- Your child needs to understand that the bus driver will not be able to see him/her if he/she bends over in front of the bus to pick something up.
Bicycle Safety:
- Make sure that your child wears a helmet when riding a bike or scooter.
- In addition to wearing a helmet, we recommend elbow and knee pads when riding a scooter.
Play Safety:
- Do not buy children’s clothing that uses drawstrings – they are a strangulation hazard as they can catch on playground equipment and other items.
- Anchor and secure movable soccer goals to prevent injury to children who climb on them.
Car Safety:
- Seatbelts are not optional. They are mandatory if in a car.
- Remember to properly use and secure car seats and booster seats.
After School and General Safety:
- Help your child map out a walking or biking route that is direct and safe for him/her if he/she travels to and from school this way.
- If your child walks or bikes to school we suggest that you have him/her wear reflective material that will make him/her more visible to traffic.
- Make sure your child knows his/her phone number, address and how to reach you during the day if necessary.
- Teach your child not to talk to strangers or accept a ride from a stranger.
- If you child is home alone after school, you need a set of rules that will ensure his/her safety.
- Be sure your child knows how to use 9-1-1 in case of emergency.
Please remember that our Daggett Shuler Team is always available to answer your legal questions and talk with you personally should you or someone you know be the victim of an accident or injury that occurred through no fault of your own.