The Ultimate Guide to Back to School Safety

As the last days of summer fade away, a new school year brings with it fresh excitement, new friendships, and a little bit of chaos. For parents, this can be a hectic time, but a focus on safety can help you navigate troubled waters with ease. Ensuring your child is equipped with the knowledge and habits to stay safe, from the moment they leave your front door to the second they return, is a priority that requires a comprehensive approach.

Student Safety Tips for Their Commute

The path to school is often filled with distractions. Whether your child is riding the bus, walking, biking, or being driven, instilling a strong sense of safety awareness is the most important lesson you can teach them.

School Bus Safety

For many children, the school bus is a mobile classroom and a symbol of independence. However, the bus stop and the ride itself require a clear set of rules.

• At the Bus Stop: The danger zone for children is often before the bus even arrives. Teach your child to arrive at the stop at least five minutes early and to wait a safe distance from the curb. A good rule of thumb is three giant steps or about six feet. They should never play in the street or run after a moving bus.

• Getting On and Off: When the bus arrives, your child should wait for it to come to a complete stop and the driver to open the door before approaching. When exiting, they should walk ten feet in front of the bus to ensure they are visible to the driver before crossing the street.

• On the Bus: Once on board, children should find a seat and remain seated while the bus is in motion. They should keep the aisle clear of backpacks and feet, and they should never shout or yell, as this can distract the driver and create a hazardous situation for everyone on board.

Driving in School Zones

Drivers, whether they are parents or not, play a critical role in student safety. Navigating driving in school zones requires heightened awareness and strict adherence to traffic laws.

• Slow Down: Always obey the posted speed limits in school zones, which are often reduced during school hours. Slower speeds give you more time to react to a child who may unexpectedly dart into the street.

• Be Prepared to Stop: Always stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and its stop-arm extended. This is a clear signal that children are getting on or off the bus. The area around a school bus is the most dangerous for children, so stop far enough back to give them plenty of space to enter and exit safely.

• Avoid Distractions: Put your phone away. Avoid eating, adjusting the radio, or engaging in any activity that takes your eyes off the road, even for a second. Your full attention is needed to anticipate the unpredictable movements of children.

Drop-Off and Pickup Zones

The start and end of the school day can be chaotic, and the rules of the road in drop-off and pickup zones are in place for a reason.

• Follow the Plan: Every school has a specific traffic flow and designated zones for loading and unloading. Follow the instructions of school staff and posted signs. Do not double park or allow your child to get out of the car in the middle of the street.

• Be Patient and Alert: Patience is key in these congested areas. Avoid aggressive driving, which can create a dangerous situation for children and other drivers. Be vigilant for children weaving through cars.

Child Safety On School Grounds

Once your child is safely on school property, a new set of rules comes into play. These tips are vital for protecting them during class, in the hallways, and at recess.

Playground Safety: Rules for Recess

Recess is a cherished part of the school day, but it’s not without its risks. Playground safety is about teaching children to be mindful of themselves and others.

• Use Equipment as Intended: Remind your child to go down slides feet first, not headfirst. They should not climb on the outside of equipment or swing sideways on the swings. Pushing and shoving should never be tolerated.

• Proper Attire: Loose clothing, scarves, necklaces, and drawstrings can get caught on playground equipment, posing a strangulation hazard. Encourage your child to wear safe and appropriate clothing.

• Take Turns: A lot of playground injuries are a result of impatience. Teach your child to wait their turn and to be aware of their surroundings, so they don’t collide with another student.

General School Safety

Beyond the playground, there are other aspects of student safety that are important to discuss.

• Backpack Safety: An overloaded backpack can lead to back pain and poor posture. A good rule of thumb is that a child's backpack should not weigh more than 10% of their body weight. Teach them to always wear both shoulder straps to distribute the weight evenly.

• Stranger Danger: While schools are generally safe, it's vital that children understand the rules of stranger danger. Teach them to never accept a ride, gifts, or invitations from a stranger. Reinforce the concept of a "family password" they should use with anyone claiming to be sent to pick them up.

• Fire and Lockdown Drills: Drills can be scary, but they are essential for your child's safety. Explain to them that they are not a game and that they must follow the directions of their teacher and school staff without question.

Maintaining Safety Practices Outside of School

The lessons of child safety don’t end when the school day does. The after-school period presents its own set of challenges.

After-School Routine

• The Check-In: If your child is old enough to get home on their own, make sure they know to call or text you immediately upon arrival.

• "Safe" Friends: Make a list of pre-approved friends they can visit and make sure they know to ask for permission before going anywhere.

• The "Home Alone" Rule: If they are arriving home to an empty house, teach them to never open the door to strangers and to keep the doors locked at all times.

Online Safety

In today's digital world, online safety is a crucial component of student safety.

• Privacy: Teach your children not to share personal information, like their address, phone number, or school name, with anyone online.

• Cyberbullying: Encourage an open dialogue about cyberbullying and what to do if they or a friend are a victim. Reassure them that they can always come to you for help.

The new school year is a partnership between parents, students, and the community. By taking the time to discuss these essential back to school safety tips, you are empowering your child with the knowledge and confidence to have a safe, successful, and happy year.

Eureka Fire Protection District is here to help in the event of an emergency, but if you follow these tips, the odds of you getting in an accident or encountering a problem are minimized. Let’s all go back to school in style this month without any issues or accidents. Stay safe out there!