It’s hard to believe, but it’s just about that time again – summer is coming to an end. This can only mean one thing: school starts soon. But while parents may be rejoicing, there are certain things to know for keeping your children safe this school year. Here are tips for three different areas of concern when it comes to back-to-school safety.
- Transportation
Regardless of the type of transportation that children take to get to and from school, it is imperative that they – and you – take the proper safety precautions.
Walking
If your child is walking to school it is important that they use a sidewalk whenever possible. If they are on a street without a sidewalk, they should always walk facing the traffic. Prior to crossing any streets they should stop and look left, right, and left once more to ensure that no cars are coming. They should be sure to cross only at crosswalks and make eye contact with drivers before crossing. All of this requires attention. That’s why they should not be distracted (by their phone, etc.) when walking. Practice walking to school with your child so that they understand these rules.
Bike Riding
As you would for walkers, parents should practice getting to school with their children by riding their bike with them. Always ride on the right side of the road, going with the traffic, and always in a single file line. It is important that they wear a proper helmet and bright clothing every single time, so that cars can easily see them. Bikers must follow the rules of the road and must come to a complete stop before crossing a street. They should walk their bike across the street.
School Bus
If your child takes the bus, you will want to go with them to teach them how to properly get on and off the bus. They need to understand that they should always be three giant steps away from the curb. Most importantly, they must to learn to walk on the side of the road until they are at least 10 feet ahead of the bus when crossing in front of it after getting off. This also requires full attention.
Parent Driving
If you are driving your child to school be sure to always follow the speed limit and drop your child off as instructed. Always make eye contact with any children who are crossing the street, and never pass a bus with its arm out, signaling that children are getting off or on the bus. Keep in mind that the area within 10 feet of the bus is the most dangerous concerning visibility.
- Backpacks
Be careful when choosing a backpack for your child. Not only should it be ergonomically designed, but it should also weigh no more than 5 to 10 percent of your child’s body weight. Children should use both straps to evenly distribute the weight. Although rolling backpacks help to prevent back injuries, they should only be used carefully, as they can create a tripping hazard for others.
- Playing
If your child is playing sports or just on the playground, it is a good idea to leave necklaces and jackets with drawstrings at home in order to prevent strangulation. If your child complains of a head injury, you should take them to receive medical attention immediately.
If your child has been injured in an accident due to the negligence of others, the experienced Personal Injury Attorneys at Daggett Shuler can help. Call us today at 800-815-5500 today!
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