As summer winds down and the school year looms, a new rhythm begins to take shape in every household. While you’re likely already busy shopping for notebooks, pens, and new backpacks, one of the most critical back-to-school preparations is often overlooked: a comprehensive review of back to school safety. Ensuring student safety and child safety requires a partnership between parents, educators, and the community. By taking a proactive approach, you can equip your child with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate the school year securely, making it a positive and successful experience for everyone.

School Bus Safety: Navigating the Ride to and from School

For many children, the school bus is a daily part of their routine. Teaching your child proper school bus safety can make all the difference. The rules begin long before the bus even arrives.

• At the Bus Stop: Instruct your child to stand at least six feet, or three giant steps, away from the curb while waiting. This prevents them from accidentally stepping into traffic. Remind them that horseplay or roughhousing at the bus stop is a major distraction and can lead to falls and injuries. If possible, have them wear bright, visible clothing, especially during early morning hours or on overcast days. Waiting for the bus should always be a calm, alert time.
• Boarding and Exiting: When the bus pulls up, your child should wait for it to come to a complete stop, the door to open, and the driver to signal it is safe to board. This same rule applies in reverse when exiting. The most dangerous area around a school bus is what’s known as the “danger zone”, which is the 10-foot area surrounding the bus on all sides. When your child exits the bus, they should take five steps away from the vehicle and be sure to make eye contact with the driver before crossing the street. This ensures the driver sees them and has a clear understanding of their intentions. They should never attempt to retrieve something they’ve dropped near or under the bus; instead, they should tell the driver.
• On the Bus: Once aboard, your child should quickly find a seat and remain seated for the entire ride, facing forward. They should keep the aisle clear of backpacks and feet. It’s also important to remind them not to yell, shout, or distract the bus driver. The driver’s attention needs to be fully on the road to ensure the safety of all passengers.

Drop-off and Pickup Zones: A Parent’s Role in a Busy Environment

The busiest times at any school are during morning drop-off and afternoon pickup. These high-traffic areas can quickly become chaotic without strict adherence to the rules. Following the protocols of drop-off and pickup zones is one of the most important things a parent can do to prevent accidents.

 

 

• The Parent’s Responsibility: Always use the designated drop-off and pickup lanes. Never ask your child to cross traffic to get to or from your car. Patience is a virtue in these situations. Avoid the temptation to pull around other cars or to park illegally, as this creates blind spots and increases the risk of an accident. Most importantly, avoid all distractions, especially using your cell phone. Your full attention must be on the road and the children around you.
• The Child’s Responsibility: Teach your child to always stay on the sidewalk or in a designated safe area while waiting for your car. They should never run into the street. When you arrive, they should get in and out of the car on the curb side, away from moving traffic. Creating a simple family plan for what to do if you are running late or if there is a miscommunication can also provide them with a sense of security and a clear course of action.

Driving in School Zones: Extra Vigilance Is Required

When driving in school zones, your level of awareness must be heightened. These areas have unique traffic rules designed specifically for the protection of children.

• Speed Limits and Crossing Guards: The reduced speed limits in school zones are not suggestions; they are strictly enforced to give drivers more time to react to a child who may unexpectedly step into the street. Always obey crossing guards. Their signals take precedence over traffic lights or signs, and their purpose is to ensure children can cross safely. Be prepared to stop for them, and never try to drive around them.
• Vigilance and Awareness: A child’s behavior can be unpredictable. You must be on the lookout not only for children in crosswalks but also for those who might dart out from between parked cars, or for bicyclists on the road or sidewalk. Pay close attention to your surroundings at all times and look far down the road to anticipate potential hazards. Avoid distractions, such as adjusting the radio, eating, or using your phone.
• Parking and Maneuvering: Never double-park, as this blocks the view of children trying to cross the street and forces other drivers to swerve into oncoming traffic. Avoid making illegal U-turns and be cautious when backing out of a parking spot, as a small child may be in a blind spot.

Playground Safety: A Guide to Responsible Playtime

Recess is a time for fun, but it’s also where many minor accidents can happen. By discussing playground safety with your children, you can empower them to play responsibly.

• Equipment Rules: Remind your child to use playground equipment properly. This means sitting on swings, going down slides feet-first, and holding on with both hands on monkey bars. They should never jump off equipment while in motion or at the top of a slide. Explain that pushing and shoving can cause serious falls.
• Supervision and Awareness: While teachers and playground supervisors are always present, children should still be taught to be aware of their surroundings. They should watch out for otherchildren who may be running or playing nearby. Teach them to report any broken or damaged equipment to an adult immediately.

Walking and Biking to School: The Power of Pedestrian Safety

For children who walk or bike to school, there are additional safety measures to consider.

• Walkers: If your child walks, plan a safe route together. This route should use sidewalks and designated crosswalks, avoiding shortcuts through alleys or private property. Remind your child to always look both ways before crossing the street, to make eye contact with drivers, and to walk with a buddy if possible.
• Bikers: A helmet is non-negotiable. Ensure your child’s helmet fits properly and is worn every time they ride. Their bicycle should also be in good working condition, with properly inflated tires and functioning brakes. Teach them to ride on the right side of the road, follow all traffic laws, and use proper hand signals when turning or stopping.

In the end, back to school safety is not just about a list of rules; it’s about instilling a mindset of awareness and caution in your child. By discussing these topics and practicing these behaviors, you are partnering with them to create a safe, secure, and successful school year. Open communication is key, so make it a habit to check in with them and discuss any concerns they might have. What other safety topics do you plan to review with your children before the first day of school?

The team at Mehlville Fire Protection District just wants to ensure that you and your children are as safe as possible when the time comes to get back in the school year swing of things. Follow these tips and your kids will have a great new year at school while you can continue on with your life, worry-free.