Get Back To School Safely

Many valley children have returned back to school and many more will return next week.With more children, cars,  bicycles and school buses  on our valley roadways, it’s a great time for everyone to review some basic school safety tips. You’ll find a list of helpful safety tips below covering topics such as school zone, bicycle and school bus safety.

Another helpful tool to consult is the city’s list of suggested school routes. The city’s Public Works Department has developed suggested routes for children traveling to and from elementary schools within the city limits. The map for each school includes the preferred route, school zones, crosswalks and traffic signals. They can be found on the city’s Web site .

School Bus Safety
• Have a safe place to wait for the bus.
• Use the handrail to enter and exit the bus.
• Do not approach the bus until it comes to a complete stop and the driver signals to approach the vehicle.
• Follow the directions of school crossing guards and traffic signals.
• Stay at least 10 feet away from the school bus and never cross in back of it. The driver won’t be able to see you.
• Never accept a ride from a stranger.
• Remain seated on the bus until you have reached your destination and never place your head, arms or hands outside the bus.
• When crossing the street once you have arrived at your destination, make sure to look left, right and left again.
• Inspect clothing for long drawstrings. These can get trapped in school bus doors.

Bike Safety
• Always wear a safety helmet and other protective gear when riding your bike.
• Walk your bike across the crosswalk. Do not ride through the crosswalk.
• Ride with the flow of traffic.
• Master bicycle hand signals.
• Wear reflective clothing.
• Check clothing for hanging items that could get caught in a bicycle chain.

School Zone Safety
• Give yourself extra time. With school zones in effect, you may need a few extra minutes for morning and afternoon commutes.
• Slow down and follow posted speed limits.
• Don’t pass another vehicle in a school zone.
• Scan between parked cars and other objects for children who might dart in front of your car.
• Follow the lead of school crossing guards in the area.
• Avoid potential distractions such as cell phones.
• Report those who create a hazardous situation in and around school zones.

For more back to school tips, visit National Highway Traffic Safety Administration  .