As the new school year kicks off, it’s important to think beyond the basics when it comes to your child’s safety on their way to and from school. Here are 10 unique and lesser-known bicycle and pedestrian safety tips to help parents and students start the year off right:
1. Create a Safety Route Map
Help your child by planning a specific route to school that highlights safe crossing points and avoids high-traffic areas. A pre-planned route ensures they stick to familiar paths and reduces the risk of getting lost.
2. Buddy Up
Walking or biking with a friend or sibling isn’t just more fun—it’s safer too. The buddy system increases visibility and provides an extra layer of support in case of an emergency.
3. Interactive Safety Drills
Practice makes perfect. Conduct regular safety drills with your child, such as role-playing different scenarios like encountering strangers or navigating unexpected roadwork. These drills keep them prepared for the unexpected.
4. Technology Check
For older children, consider equipping them with a smartwatch or GPS-enabled device. This allows you to monitor their route and ensures quick communication if needed.
5. Reflective Backpack Straps
Add reflective straps or patches to your child’s backpack. This small addition can significantly increase their visibility from all angles, especially in low-light conditions.
6. Emergency Identification Card
Make sure your child carries an emergency ID card with their name, address, parent contact information, and any medical conditions. This is crucial if they ever need help from a stranger or emergency services.
7. Personalized Safety Code Word
Create a family safety code word that your child can use in an emergency. If they ever feel threatened or uncomfortable, they can use the code word to alert you discreetly.
8. Custom Safety Signals
Teach your child unique hand signals or gestures to communicate with you from a distance. This can be especially helpful for younger children who might not have a phone.
9. Environmental Awareness Training
Educate your child on how to recognize environmental cues, such as changes in weather that might affect their route (like rain making surfaces slippery) or construction that might require detours.
10. Local Landmark Familiarization
Take the time to walk or bike the route to school with your child, pointing out key landmarks like specific trees, signs, or buildings. These landmarks help them navigate better and serve as reference points if they ever get disoriented.
By incorporating these unique safety tips into your routine, you’ll help ensure that your child starts the school year with confidence and security, ready to navigate their daily journey with peace of mind. Follow us on social media @obxbikeped and cruise our site for more tips on bicycle and pedestrian safety for folks of all ages!
