To help ensure a healthy and happy school year, families can keep in mind the following tips in the areas of school bus safety, walking and biking safety, and backpack safety.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notes that school buses are the safest way for children to travel to and from school. The majority of school bus-related injuries occur while students are boarding and getting off the bus. Over the last 10 years, the NHTSA estimates that nearly two-thirds of school-age pedestrians who were fatally injured by school buses or other vehicles were hurt after being struck while entering or exiting the bus.
While at the bus stop, children must remember to stay at least five large steps away from the road and wait to board until the driver says so. When leaving the bus, students should make sure there is no oncoming traffic and wait for a signal from the bus driver before crossing busy streets.
While on the bus, students should observe the rules and stay seated at all times. The center aisle should also be kept clear of backpacks.
Students may walk or bike to school if the school permits. School tends to begin during the morning rush hour, so students must exercise extreme caution when walking or biking to school. They should stay on sidewalks whenever possible when walking. Cyclists should follow the rules of the road, including riding in the same direction as traffic. Families whose children will be walking or biking to school should choose the safest route together and practice it before the first day of school, advises the security company ADT.
Parents and their children should choose an ergonomically designed backpack to enhance safety and comfort. Backpacks should weigh no more than 5 to 10% of the child's body weight, advises the National Safety Council. Rolling backpacks should be avoided since they are a tripping hazard.
With a new school year beginning, students and their parents can discuss school safety so the year starts off on the right foot.
Leave a Review