Make it Safe This School Year

We all remember the mixture of emotions that going back to school often brings. You're anxious and excited, but disappointed that summer's over. Make the transition from pool to school easy and safe this year with these tips.

Pack light and place heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of a child's body weight.

Always use both shoulder straps. Wearing a backpack on one shoulder can strain muscles and increase curvature of the spine.

Consider a rolling backpack if your child must tote a heavy load.

Traveling to and from school

Review these basic rules with your child:

School bus

Wait for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb.

Do not move around on the bus.

Check to see that no other traffic is coming before crossing the street.

Make sure to always remain in clear view of the bus driver.

Car

All passengers should wear a seat belt and/or age-appropriate car safety seat or booster seat.

All children under 13 should ride in the rear seat of vehicles.

Many crashes occur when novice teen drivers are going to and from school. Limit the number of teen passengers to prevent driver distraction. Do not allow your teen to drive while eating, drinking or talking on a cell phone.

Bike

Always wear a bike helmet, no matter how long or short the ride.

Ride on the right, in the same direction as auto traffic.

Use appropriate hand signals.

Respect traffic lights and stop signs.

Wear brightly colored clothing to increase visibility.

Walking to school

Make sure your child's route is safe with well-trained adult crossing guards at every intersection.

Be realistic about your child's pedestrian skills. Small children are impulsive and less cautious around traffic, so consider whether your child is truly ready to walk to school without adult supervision.

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