Back To School Safety Tips For Kids

Now that school is back in session, many working parents are concerned about the safety of their children. We’ve created a list of some of the best things you can do to keep your kids safe before and after school.

Traveling To School

If your child walks or rides a bike to school, tell them to:

• Always wear a bicycle helmet.
• Never wear loose clothing that can get caught in the bike’s pedals or spokes.
• Never walk alone or talk to strangers.
• Always follow the traffic lights and street signs.
• Look both ways before crossing the street.

If your child rides the school bus, tell them to:

• Stand on the sidewalk while waiting for the bus.
• Carry all their belongings in their backpack and never go behind or underneath the bus to get anything that has rolled under it.
• Wait for the bus driver to signal to them when it’s okay to cross the street.

If you drive your child to school, make sure:

• Your child wears their seatbelt.
• Your child rides in the back seat if they are 12 years old or younger.
• Child safety locks are functioning.
• You drive the speed limit and drive safely.

If your teen drives to school, be sure to tell them:

• Most accidents occur near the home, while driving to school.
• Limit the number of teen passengers in the vehicle.
• Not to use cellular phones while driving.
• Avoid eating, drinking and playing with the radio.

Returning Home From School

Many state laws require supervision at all times for children under the age of 12. If your child is 12 or older and gets home before you, be sure they:

• Never enter the house if the door is open. Go to neighbor’s for help.
• Lock the doors when they get home.
• Call your cell phone or work phone for emergencies.
• Never answer the door for strangers.
• Know where the fire extinguisher and first-aid kit are located.
• Follow the house rules: homework, chores, phone and computer use.
• Never invite friends over, while you’re away.

As the parent, it is your responsibility to:

• Call your child to make sure they safely arrived home.
• Create an emergency plan, so your child knows what to do during an emergency.
• Tell your child when you will be arriving home. Be sure to tell them of any schedule changes.
• Teach your child how to answer the phone when you’re away: “Dad is not available.” … “Mom is busy and can’t talk right now.”
• Treat your child as a responsible young adult, once they know the rules.

Following these tips will help keep your child safe throughout the school year. It’s always important to regularly talk to your child about safety throughout the school year.