Class is in Session: Pedestrian and bicycle safety

Many students will be walking and biking to school as they head back to calls this fall.  Both are fun, healthy ways for children to get to school every day, especially when children understand their responsibilities as pedestrians and bicyclists.  Here are some simple tips to keep them safe as they head out:

•  Be aware of your surroundings.
• Always walk on the sidewalk if one is available; if a child must walk on the street, he or she should face oncoming traffic.  Bicyclist should use the sidewalk when appropriate and ride with traffic.
• Cross only at crosswalks and intersections.
• Look left, right, then left again before crossing the street.
• Always walk with a responsible adult or in a group.  If bicycling in a group, ride single file.
• Students should practice walking or bicycling the route to school with an adult until they are comfortable with the route.

While walking and bicycling are fun and healthy, pedestrian/bicycle crashes are on the rise.  This is due in part to distracted drivers, as well as distracted pedestrians and bicyclists.  When walking or bicycling it is important for pedestrians and bicyclists to take responsibility for their safety.  That begins with being aware of your surroundings and ditching the distractions:

• Never walk or ride your bike while texting or talking on the phone.
• If texting, move out of the way of others and stop on the sidewalk.
• Never cross the street while using an electronic device.
• Do not walk or ride your bike with headphones on.