BACK-TO-SCHOOL SAFETY

As students assemble on school campuses throughout Los Angeles County and school bells ring in another new school year, parents should discuss safety rules with their children, and motorists should remember to be alert for children near schools and bus stops.

"Although we need to be aware all year long, we especially need to remind ourselves that school is back in session and these children and young adults will be traversing our streets, sidewalks and intersections in great numbers. We need to slow down, drive extra carefully and most importantly keep an eye on our children," said Sheriff Lee Baca in discussing back-to-school safety.

Thousands of children are injured or killed in accidents involving pedestrians and automobiles in California every year. These unnecessary tragedies can be prevented if we all do our part. Parents, friends and mentors should take the time to discuss a few simple safety rules with children. Motorists should re-familiarize themselves with traffic laws and the safe operation of motor vehicles, especially those pertaining to school zones. One of the easiest things for motorists to do is drive with their headlights on during all hours; studies have shown that vehicles with their lights on during the day are significantly easier to see by pedestrians than those without lights on. Also, persons operating motor vehicles should be aware of clues that children might be present, including crossing guards, school buses, and playgrounds. Finally, motorists should remember that the speed limit is reduced in school zones. Children 12 and under should not ride in the front seat of a car, whether it has front passenger airbags or not. Children under 6 years of age, or weighing less than 60 pounds, must ride in an approved child restraint device.

If your child rides a bicycle to school, make sure he or she knows the rules of the road and follows them. Parents whose children bicycle to school, should ensure they wear a helmet and that their bicycle is working properly. Children who walk to school should always walk in groups, and parents should remind them not to take shortcuts through dirt fields or alleys.

Pedestrians should cross at designated crosswalks, following the old rule of looking to the left, to the right, and to the left again before crossing the street. Extra caution should be exercised in bad weather by motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians alike.

Personal safety rules are of utmost importance and should be emphasized to children over and over again. Remind them to yell or scream and run away if an unknown person tries to grab them. They should never speak to strangers in public or on the Internet, nor should they believe a message from a stranger. As soon as children are able to do so, have them memorize their address, phone number, and full name. Parents should carry a current picture of their child and be ready to provide an accurate physical description at a moments notice including, height, weight, hair and eye color, identifying marks or characteristics and clothing. Be familiar with your child's friends and acquaintances and their contact information including addresses and phone numbers. "If we all take the time and the interest in the safety of our children and help educate them, we will ensure their safety from strangers and moving vehicles alike all year long," concluded Sheriff Baca. "In addition, if you see something out of the ordinary or you discover a child is not where he or she is supposed to be, call your local Police or Sheriff station immediately."

SHB-70A-02

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August 30, 2002