The month of August highlights the beginning of a new school year for children. During this time, children will be traveling to and from school. This means an increase in the number of pedestrians on the roads and sidewalks — which could mean a greater risk for accidents. It is imperative that drivers stay alert and drive defensively to keep our kids safe.
How can you prevent an accident from occurring?
n Slow down! Obey speed limits.
n Adjust your mirrors so that you can see around your vehicle.
n Avoid backing up your vehicle, whenever possible, while on your route.
n Never pass a school bus that is stopped. When stopping your vehicle, make sure that you stay at least 10 feet away. This will allow enough space for children to enter and exit the bus safely.
n Stay alert. Children are unpredictable. They are known to take risks, ignore hazards, and fail to look both ways when crossing the street while walking and biking to and from school.
n Never hand mail to children. A child may develop the habit of running to the mailbox and running in front of vehicles when he or she sees your vehicle. This behavior can cause the child to be hit if you cannot see them.
It only takes a second for an accident to occur. Be alert, always drive defensively, and keep our kids safe.
— Safety and Health,
Employee Resource Management, 9-4-14
