National Traffic Awareness Month: Back-to-School Safety

As the summer days shorten and the anticipation of a new school year grows, families everywhere are preparing for the back-to-school season. Amid the flurry of shopping for supplies and organizing schedules, it’s crucial to remember that August is National Traffic Awareness Month—a timely reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly with the increased activity around schools.

Key Safety Reminders for August

• **Increased Pedestrian Activity:** With kids returning to school, there is a heightened presence of young pedestrians crossing streets or biking, especially in residential areas. Drivers should exercise extra caution and be vigilant in spotting children, who might not always be as visible or as predictable as adults.
• **School Bus Awareness:** School buses will be making frequent stops to pick up and drop off students. It’s vital for drivers to be aware of and adhere to stop sign laws around buses. Remember, when a school bus stops and extends its stop-arm, vehicles on both sides of the road must come to a complete stop to ensure the safety of boarding or alighting students.
• **Patience in School Zones:** School drop-off and pick-up times can be chaotic, with congested zones buzzing with activity. It’s essential to remain patient and alert in these areas, where unpredictable movements by pedestrians can occur.
• **Understanding for Student Drivers:** Many high school students will be driving to school for the first time, often making them inexperienced and sometimes nervous drivers. Providing them with extra space and time can prevent potential mishaps and encourage safe driving practices.
• **Safety Talks with Children:** Parents should regularly talk with their children about road safety, whether they are walking, biking, or riding the bus. Encourage the use of crosswalks, helmet use for bikers, and the importance of staying off phones or devices while navigating traffic.

Shared Responsibility

The collective effort to enhance road safety during this critical season is a shared responsibility. Simple adjustments in daily routines—leaving a little earlier to avoid rush hour, being more attentive at intersections, and respecting school traffic laws—can significantly improve safety for all.

As we step into this bustling time of year, let’s lead by example. Together, with awareness and action, we can make roads safer for everyone, especially our youngest community members.