Going back to school is an exciting time for children! They look forward to seeing their friends and possibly meeting new ones. It can also be a time of unforeseen dangers, however.  Here are some essential back-to-school safety tips.

Strangers

Talk to your children about who is authorized to pick them up and never to accept a ride from a stranger (even if the stranger knows their name).  Some families have a code word that only they know, and if a stranger doesn’t know the family word, the child knows that person is not allowed to give them a ride.  Be sure your child knows your phone number and address by heart and who to call if they cannot get a hold of you. Be sure the school has up-to-date contact information for your household and a list of trusted adults authorized to pick them up from school.   

School Bus Safety

Talk to your child about exiting the bus and being on the lookout for passing cars. Most motorists are respectful of a stopped school bus, but there’s always one person not paying attention. Get to know the other parents of children who ride the bus. This will ensure that someone you know is looking out for your child when they get dropped off if you’re not there to pick them up immediately. Getting to know the school bus driver is also a good idea.

Walking Safety

Children should know to walk in a group if possible. This offers safety in two ways: it provides protection from someone who may wish to harm a single student, and a group of students will be more visible to drivers not paying attention.  Make sure your child knows traffic rules, how to cross at the crosswalks, and to always walk on the sidewalk or path.  If there are no sidewalks, teach your child to walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible so they can be aware of what is coming towards them.

Biking Safety

Before your child starts riding their bike to school, be sure to teach them the rules of the road while riding.  Some motorists won’t yield to bicycles, and one slight mishap could be catastrophic.  And, of course, helmets are non-negotiable. 

While our area is a fantastic place to live with beautiful homes and great schools, the world isn’t as safe as it once was.  Children need to know how to be aware of their surroundings and when something is ‘off.’ The more vigilant they are, the better off they will be!  

For more information about our community and homes available in the current market, contact the David Morris Group. Call us at (775) 828-3292, and we’ll be happy to help you begin your home search.