BACK TO SCHOOL DRIVING AND STUDENT SAFETY

As school gets under way there are many things on the minds of parents and students. Everything from, “I need coffee to get started,” to “I wonder if this person likes me,” or “What am I doing for lunch and who with?” Distracted thinking is a common occurrence that can be very dangerous in a congested School Zone. There are many factors to consider when driving into a School Zone such as increased foot traffic, bicycle traffic and NEW drivers.  In this article we will share some ideas to help with driver and student safety.

Keep your mind on the road! The posted speed limit in a School Zone is 15 MPH when children are present. Drivers are encouraged to adjust their drive times due to the school speed zones and increased traffic near school sites. Parents should ensure their High School drivers leave for school early enough allowing them to drive safely and timely to school. All drivers need to be aware of students riding bicycles and walking to school. Obey all traffic laws and SLOW DOWN. Buckle up for your own safety.

Parents are encouraged to discuss pedestrian safety and to direct children to use designated cross walks when crossing the street. Remind students riding bicycles to wear helmets in accordance with State Law and to follow the rules of the road. Bicycle riders may contact their School Resource Officers or any Police Officer to help explain the laws if needed. Bicycle riders that do not have a helmet can obtain one FREE OF CHARGE at the FORT BRAGG POLICE DEPARTMENT. Remember, children under the age of 18 MUST wear a helmet.  

With the tough economic times we are experiencing, we are seeing less bus transportation for residents of Fort Bragg. There are more and more students walking to school every day. We suggest that parents with children walking to school discuss walking habits and choose a safe route that your child will walk every day. Parents are encouraged to walk the agreed upon route with the child and record the time it takes to walk from home to school, and from school to home. Students should use the same route every day and avoid shortcuts.

Pedestrians should always use public sidewalks and streets when walking to school and avoid using alleys. When practical, find another student that lives close by to walk with. It is always safer to walk with other people because there is safety in numbers. Whether walking or riding a bicycle, parents should teach their children to recognize and obey traffic signals and pavement markings. When crossing the street, use designated crosswalks. Always look both ways before crossing the street, and never enter streets from between parked cars or from behind shrubbery. CARS MAY NOT SEE YOU!

Parents are asked to remind their children that when walking home, avoid talking to strangers. Put distance between themselves and anyone who trying to approach or make contact. Report anything suspicious to parents, school authorities, and law enforcement. Always communicate with someone about where you are going!

HAVE A GREAT AND SAFE 2010 – 2011 SCHOOL YEAR!