Back to School Safely
By Heather
In our town, if you live less than 1.5 miles from school, you are not eligible for the school bus … budget cuts, wah, don’t get me started! Consequently, there will be many little people walking, hurried commuters driving, enviro-conscious bikers pedaling, and the regular school bus traveling its route all fighting for the same roads. Throw in some hills, weather and a sunset for poor visibility, and you have a recipe for chaos.
Getting to and from school safely
As schools get back in session, please take extra care during morning and afternoon commutes:
- Respect and obey school crossing guards. Wave hello to them; they are doing an important job.
- As you pull into traffic at all intersections and near school parking lots, be aware of walking children.
- Remember school zones and follow posted speed limits. Don’t try to speed around school zones. If your commute permits, consider taking another road next time.
- Follow basic rules for a stopped school bus:
1) When a school bus stops and flashes red light(s), drivers approaching from either direction must stop at least 20 feet away from the bus.
2) Once stopped for a school bus, drivers may not start until the red lights stop flashing or the bus driver waves
3) After stopping for a school bus, drivers must watch for children along the side of the road and drive slowly until past them. - Be on the lookout for children who may wander into traffic while waiting for and when getting on and off of the school bus.
Just as I ask you not to speed through my neighborhood street in the summertime, now I ask you to please be cautious as you drive when our children are heading back to school. Thank you!
Related post: cross roads safely and silently
