Back To A Safe School Year

The new school year has begun and while it is easy to become relaxed about bedtimes, traffic zones and general safety in the summer months, we must once again be diligent. 

Safe travel to and from school is a crucial part of keeping students safe, according to Kristen Ugrin, principal of Greens Hills Elementary School.

"The major safety concern is keeping pedestrians safe from cars, especially in front of the schools," Ugrin said. "People are busy and in a rush to get to and from school and often don't slow down in the neighborhood or obey traffic signs."

Interim Chief of Police Neil Telford agreed. "Traffic safety, pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle, is always important."

Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death for school-age children, and 14% of these deaths occur during normal school drop-off and pick-up hours, according to the Committee on School Transportation Safety, National Research Council.

Ugrin urges children to use the sidewalk and crosswalk and to make sure to look both ways before stepping off a curb. "Don't assume cars will stop for a crosswalk or see pedestrians," she said.

Directly in front of school, students should take advantage of the crosswalk with the crossing guard. "Even if the other one may be a shorter path, use the one with the crossing guard," Ugrin said.

In addition, students are reminded to walk with a buddy and not to talk to people in cars who they do not know.

Ugrin also offered advice to parents.

"Slow down, take your time and allow plenty of time to get your child to school," she said. "Even though it saves time to make a u-turn, don't, because it is dangerous for pedestrians." 

According to Telford, parents should also consider safety issues that may arise within the school, including bullying, school safety plans and how to reunite with children in the event of an emergency.

"Parents and guardians should collaborate with school representatives when it comes to safety issues at school," Telford said.

Telford also offered advice for parents of teenagers.

"As children get older, parents should also talk to them about how to respond to peer pressure and discuss the dangers of drug and alcohol use," he said. "They should also talk to children about internet safety."

Finally, Telford argued that parents and guardians should openly discuss these safety issues with their children.

"Maintaining an open line of communication with children and school representatives is critical to help keep our kids safe," he said.

Starting the new school year can be an exciting time.  But in addition to purchasing new outfits and checking off reading lists, students and parents alike are urged to consider these back-to-school safety tips.

For additional safety resources visit the National Crime Prevention Council.