Summer is here and the kids are active and carefree. They still need reminders about how to be safe when walking the sidewalks, crossing the streets, and being an aware pedestrian. Parents play an important part in keeping their children safe by being good pedestrian role models.
1. Parents first should be a good example when crossing the street. Cross the street safely by crossing at the corner and using sidewalks. In rural areas, children still need to be taught to cross safely and to look both ways. You may think this is a given, but unfortunately tkids are hit by cars everyday.
2. Never allow children under 10 to cross streets alone, especially in big cities. Adult supervision is essential until mature judgment and motor skill are developed. Kids can be impulsive and awkward so crossing without supervision is unsafe.
3. Encourage children to take the most direct route with the fewest street crossings when crossing alone. Teach them to cross 10 feet or more in front of a school bus or city bus and never behind the bus where they may not be seen.
4. Finally, teach your child to never run into the street after a ball, pet, or for any other reason even on a little traveled street without stopping and looking both ways. Care should be taken even when playing in a driveway or cul de sac, as the driver may not expect or see children playing.
5. Have children wear reflective or bright clothing when playing at dawn or dusk. In low light situations, a driver may not see a child on a bike or walking even when the child is being careful.
Parents must be a good example when walking with their children. It is by being a model pedestrian, that their children will learn best how to be safe when on foot.
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