Allow enough time to get to school or to work. Leave earlier to avoid speeding.
Obey all school zone signs. Flashing yellow lights are used to indicate speed limits through school zones. Driving even 5 MPH over the speed limit increases the risk of hitting a child. Remember fines can be doubled.
Pay extra attention at school crosswalks to make sure no students are crossing or getting ready to cross. Remain stopped if children are crossing the street, you can’t be sure they are paying attention.
Watch for school bus stops. Flashing lights and the extended “STOP” arm signal motorists to come a complete stop. Remember to be extra cautious at bus stops where children are playing and gathering. Do not start driving again until the lights on the bus have stopped flashing and the “STOP” sign has been pulled in.
If you drop your children off at school that your children are in safety seats or properly restrained. Stay focused on your driving and don’t be distracted by kids in the car or other activities.
Watch for children walking in the street, especially where there are no sidewalks or if sidewalks are covered with snow.
Use extra care in areas where children may enter the road from between parked vehicles, and watch out for kids on bicycles.
A CHECKLIST FOR PARENTS
Be sure your child knows his or her home phone number and address, your work number and how to use 911 for emergencies. Make sure your child has change to make a phone call, carries a calling card or cell phone. If they carry a cell phone have one or more phone numbers marked “ICE” (in case of emergency). These can be listed as “ICE 1”, “ICE 2” etc.
Plan a walking route to school or the bus stop. Pick a route with the fewest street crossings and use intersections with crossing guards. Tell them to stay away from places where there aren’t many people around, i.e. parks, vacant lots, and fields.
Teach your children to obey traffic signals, signs and safety patrols. Remind them to be extra careful in bad weather.
Talk with neighbors or friends to have your children walk together. Safety in numbers.
Teach your children to NEVER talk to strangers or accept rides or gifts from strangers.