Back to School Safety Tips

 A Friendly Reminder: Drive Safely as School Bells Ring Again

As the new school year begins, the streets will once again be buzzing with children walking, cycling, or riding the school bus to and from school. It’s an exciting time for kids, but it also means that as a driver, you need to be extra vigilant to keep them safe. Here are some important tips to remember when driving during back-to-school season:

1. Respect Speed Limits: Especially in school zones, where speed limits are often reduced during school hours. Slowing down gives you more time to react to any unexpected situations, like a child suddenly crossing the street.

2. Stop for School Buses: When a school bus is stopped with its red lights flashing and the stop arm extended, you must stop your vehicle too. It’s not just a courteous thing to do, it’s the law in many places.

3. Be Mindful on Residential Streets: Many children walk or cycle to school through residential areas. Be extra cautious when driving through neighborhoods, and always be prepared to stop for children at crosswalks.

4. Watch for Crosswalk Flaggers: School crossing guards play a vital role in helping children cross the street safely. Be sure to stop when a crossing guard steps into the crosswalk and holds up a stop sign.

5. Avoid Distracted Driving: This is always important, but especially so during the school year. Put away your phone, avoid fiddling with the radio, and keep your eyes on the road at all times.

Remember, children may not always be aware of their surroundings or may not always act predictably. It’s up to us, as drivers, to exercise caution and keep them safe as they travel to and from school. Let’s all do our part to ensure a safe and happy school year for everyone!