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Thursday, 04 August 2011 11:16 |
Republic, MO - The Republic Police Department reminds motorists to take extra traffic safety precautions as students head back to school. The beginning of the school year is a time when children are at increased risk of transportation-related injuries from pedestrian, bicycle, school bus and motor vehicle crashes.
Below are some tips for making back to school commutes safer for motorists and students.
Tips for Motorists
• Slow down and obey all traffic laws and speed limits.
• Be alert for reduced speed limits in designated School Speed Zones.
• Watch for school buses. Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm indicate the school bus is stopping to load or unload children. Know and follow the state law that requires you to stop.
• Keep an eye out for children riding their bicycles or walking in the street, especially where there are no sidewalks.
• Be alert for children playing and gathering near bus stops and for those who may dart into the street without looking for traffic.
• When backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, watch for children walking or biking to school.
Tips for Parents
• Be a good role model. Always buckle up in the car, always wear a helmet when biking and always follow pedestrian safety rules. Do not text on your cell phone while driving.
• Supervise young children as they are walking or biking to school or as they wait at the school bus stop.
• Provide your children with bright clothing so motorists can easily see them. Add reflective markings on backpacks.
• Make sure your child is properly buckled up in a weight-appropriate child safety seat in the back seat.
Tips for Students
• Always buckle up when riding in a car. Be sure to remove your backpack before getting in the vehicle. Never buckle your safety belt with your backpack on.
• Always ride in the back seat. It's the safest place for young people.
• Always wear a helmet and follow traffic safety rules when riding your bike.
• If you walk to school, learn and practice the safety rules for pedestrians. It's extremely important for you to use the sidewalk when available, look left-right-left when crossing the road, and always walk facing traffic.
• Always cross at crosswalks; obey all traffic signs, traffic lights and crossing guard instructions.
As always, the Republic Police Department is committed to highway safety and the well-being of all motorists on area roadways. The public can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Republic Police Department by calling 911.
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