Protect Kids as They Head Back to School

With winter break coming to an end, Arcata Fire District would like to remind parents and drivers to do their part to keep kids safe as they walk to school. 

Parents should be proactive and take the time to talk about safety with their kids before they head back to school.

Arcata Fire District recommends that parents walk the route to school with students before the start of the year to assess hazards and select a course with the least number of traffic crossings.

Top Back to School Safety Tips

Here are some simple reminders for drivers:

• Slow down and be especially alert in the residential neighborhoods and school zones.
• Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
• Watch for children on and near the road in the morning and after school hours.
• Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings. Put down your phone and don’t talk or text while driving.

Reminder for your kids:

• They should cross the street with an adult until they are at least 10 years old.
• Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.
• Never run out into the streets or cross in between parked cars.
• Make sure they always walk in front of the bus where the driver can see them.

For more information contact Arcata Fire at (707)825-2000