Monday, August 31, 2009

Watch the Kids - County Schools Start Today!

Fire Chief Richard Bowers wants to remind everyone that today is the first day of school for Montgomery County Public Schools and about 142,000 students.  Please take a moment to review the below safety tips from the Mid-Atlantic Foundation for Safety and Education and AAA:
 
Drivers Tips to Keep School Children Safe


* Slow down in or near school and residential areas.

* Drive with your headlights on - even during the day - so children and other drivers can see you.

* Look for clues such as School Safety Patrols, Adult Crossing Guards, bicycles, and playgrounds, which indicate children could be in the area.

* Always stop for school buses that are loading/unloading students.

* Limit distractions such as cell phones, CD players or other devices that cause you to take your eyes off the road.

* Practice extra caution in adverse weather conditions.

* Pay particular attention near schools during the morning and afternoon hours.

* Scan between parked cars and other objects for signs that children could dart into the road.


Safe Walking Tips for Children

* Always obey Adult Crossing Guards and AAA School Safety Patrols.

* Before crossing - look all ways.

* Obey all traffic signals.

* Use crosswalks and corners to cross the road.

* Where there is no sidewalk and it is necessary to walk in the roadway, walk facing traffic and as far from the roadway as possible.

* Avoid crossing between parked cars.

* Watch for cars. Be sure that the way is clear before you cross.

Remember, school's open - drive carefully. You can make a difference just by staying alert and taking the extra care while driving where children are present.

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