TOO SOON: We’re sure children think this message from the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania is coming along too soon: It’s time for “Back to School” safety.

If your student is younger or going to school for the first time, teach them how to reach their parents during the day, what is their address, how to get in touch with another trusted adult and how to dial 911.

If your child walks to school, teach them to walk on the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic. Cross the street at the corner, obey traffic signals and stay in the crosswalk. Never run out into the street or cross between parked cars. 

If your student takes the bus to school, teach them to get to their bus stop early and stand away from the curb while waiting for the bus to arrive; board the bus only after it has come to a complete stop and the driver or attendant has instructed them to get on; only board their bus, never an alternate one; and stay in clear view of the bus driver and never walk behind the bus.

If your student rides their bike to school, teach them to always wear a helmet, and ride on the right in the same direction as the traffic is going. 

If you drive your child to school, teach them to always wear a seat belt. Younger children should use car seats or booster seats until the lap-shoulder belt fits properly, and ride in the back seat until they are at least 13 years old.

If you have a teenager driving to school, make sure they use seat belts and don’t use their cell phone to text or make calls and avoid eating or drinking while driving.