We’re BACK !!!

School is back in session and children are everywhere, on the street riding their bikes, on the sidewalks walking to school and in cars with their parents.  Below are gentle reminders for parents, children and anyone driving. Being safe while riding, walking or driving is important for all.

• Last year the law changed concerning yellow crosswalks.  If you are even one mile over the speed limit of 15 in a marked and signed yellow crosswalk you could be facing a stiff penalty.  The state law in Arizona doubles the fines for traffic violations when the “Stop When Children in Crosswalk” signs are present. School zone signs around the state were modified to add the words “Fines Double”. Under the law, drivers pay a minimum of $200, depending on the jurisdiction. Fines vary from city to city but know that the fine will be doubled in this marked area.  www.saferoutesinfo.org
• Watch for children along the way.  Remind them they should not hide among parked cars or dart out from them as a quicker path to their destination.
• Children should ALWAYS use a crosswalk when it is present.  Choosing to cross the road in the middle of the street could be costly for them. 
• If your child is riding a bike, remind them to watch for car doors that might come open as they ride by.  Running into an open car door causes great damage to the bike rider and the bike.
• If you are going to walk or bike, plan your route, travel with a buddy and follow the rules of travel—walk on the sidewalk, bike in the same direction as traffic. 
• Riding a public bus or a school bus might be new to some children. When waiting at your bus stop be sure to stand at least 3 giant steps from the bus stop area.  Upper grades need to stand 6 giant steps away.  This will keep you safe from traffic and you can be seen by drivers.
• When getting on the bus be sure to tell the bus driver if you drop something, then follow the directions given. If the driver doesn’t know you are picking up an item, he might not see you as you’re bending over to retrieve it and you could be hurt if the driver decides to pull away.

CLICK HERE for our back-to-school safety flyer (PDF).