Back-to-School Safety: National Traffic Awareness Month

August marks a season of excitement and a little chaos as families across the nation prepare for the back-to-school rush. It's a period filled with joy, anticipation, and yes, a bit of stress as well. Amidst all this hustle and bustle, it's no coincidence that August is also National Traffic Awareness Month—a timely reminder for us all to consider safety during this high-traffic period. Let's dive into some essential reminders and action steps to ensure everyone's safety as the school year kicks off.

Watch for Kids: Increased Street Crossings

• Children will be out in full force, crossing streets or biking to school. Be extra cautious in residential areas and near schools.
• Drive slowly and stay alert—kids may cross unexpectedly or dart out from between parked cars.

School Buses: Frequent Stops and Vigilance

• School buses will make frequent stops, especially in the mornings and afternoons. Be prepared and vigilant near stopped buses.
• Understand and obey stop sign laws. When a bus’s stop sign is extended, all vehicles must stop unless on the opposite side of a divided highway.

Chaotic School Zones: Stay Patient and Alert

• School zones and parking lots can become congested during drop-off and pick-up times. Patience is key to avoiding accidents.
• Keep distractions at bay—focus on the road, and avoid using your phone while driving in these areas.

Student Drivers: Extra Space and Understanding

• Many students are new behind the wheel. Give them extra space and show understanding as they navigate the roads.
• Stay alert for novice mistakes and be ready to react with caution and care.

Safety Talks: Equip Your Children

• Have crucial conversations with your children about road safety. Ensure they know the importance of using crosswalks and wearing helmets while biking.
• Stress the importance of staying off phones or devices when crossing streets or driving.

Remember, a few mindful changes in our daily routines can make a substantial difference. Safety is a shared responsibility, and this season presents an opportunity to lead by example. Let’s work together to make this back-to-school period safe and stress-free for everyone involved.