Safety Tips for the School Year

National School Bus Safety Week is held annually during the third week of October, so now’s as good a time as any to review some transportation safety tips whether our kids are bus riders or car riders, or those who bike and walk to school safely. Knowing safety tips isn’t just important for parents and school goers, but for those traveling through school zones as well, especially since accidents in school zones can be caused by a number of factors. Now that these neighborhoods are once again bustling with activity, it’s up to everyone on the road to be mindful of school zones and follow basic precautions in these areas.

We all remember the excitement (and sometimes fear) of being allowed to ride the school bus – gaining a bit of independence as we journey to the schoolhouse. Basic school bus safety can ensure that everyone has an enjoyable ride and arrive safely. 

• Stand 6 feet away from the curb to allow the school bus to approach safely. When crossing the street, make sure to cross in front of the bus so that the driver can see as your child is walking in front of the bus. Luckily, modern buses are now equipped with a swing-out arm that prevents students from walking too close to the bus and disappearing from view. 
• While on the bus, remain seated and don’t distract the driver by yelling out or moving around the bus.

Whether you are on carpool duty, or if your teenage driver is taking to the roads, abiding by all traffic laws and obeying school speed zones keeps everyone arriving or departing campus safe. 

• Stay alert. Put down the phone and lower the radio so that you can focus your attention on the road. Be mindful of the time of day when traffic around schools is increased.
• As you approach oncoming school buses, drivers must be prepared to stop as the buses load or unload students. Flashing yellow lights indicate an upcoming stop, while flashing red lights signify that the bus has stopped. As a driver, always come to a complete stop and check carefully for those around you who may be crossing the street after leaving the bus.

For those who live close enough to safely walk or bike to school, knowing the rules of the road and staying aware of their surroundings are more important than ever. 

• Walkers should always stay on sidewalks when available, or walk facing traffic when there is no sidewalk. Always remember to look both ways before crossing the street, whether at crosswalks or intersections. Avoid distractions – don’t text and walk, and leave out the earbuds so that you can hear oncoming traffic.
• Bike riders should ride on the right side of the road, with traffic. Use proper hand signals when turning and always wear a properly fitted helmet. Come to a complete stop before walking your bike across the street, staying aware of vehicles turning left or right. 

Regular safety reminders throughout the school year are helpful when we all get consumed by the hustle and bustle of life – homework, extracurricular activities, meal planning, cleaning, and all the surprises that pop up from day to day. Many injuries can be prevented, and doing a monthly safety check in is an easy way to stay aware and avoid becoming complacent.

• BOOKSACKS – Now is a good time to double check the fit of your child’s backpack, since an inevitable growth spurt may have occurred. Adjust straps to ensure that the weight is evenly distributed and reinforce the importance of using both straps to avoid putting extra strain on one side. While you’re at it, do a quick cleanout to lighten the load (and remove any long-forgotten papers, toys, and *gasp* snacks.)
• EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES – It’s common to get a few bumps and bruises, whether on the playground during recess or during after-school sports. Don’t ignore bruises that linger or pain that doesn’t go away, as this could be a sign of a more severe injury. Avoid baggy clothing and jewelry that can get snagged on equipment when playing.

The ongoing safety of our communities is a group effort, but when accidents occur, MedExpress provides rapid response and certified EMTs and Paramedics who are prepared to administer life-saving care at the scene of the accident.