BreeAnn Silcox, coalition coordinator, Safe Kids Bear River
Back to school is a busy time for families. With school supplies, new clothes and sports tryouts, parents may not think about safety issues. Safe Kids Bear River wants to remind parents to teach their kids how to stay safe during the school year.
Safe Kids Bear River recommends the following six tips:
- Tell your kids how to walk safely to school. Teach them at an early age to put down their devices, then look left, right and left again when crossing the street.
- Walk your kids to the bus stop and wait with them. Tell them to stand at least three giant steps back from the curb as the bus approaches and board the bus one at a time.
- Make sure your carpool is safe. Carpooling can be a great way to save time. Make sure each child has a car seat, booster seat or safety belt, based on individual age, weight and height.
- Get a pre-participation physical exam. Before playing organized sports, make sure your child receives a pre-participation physical exam (PPE) by a doctor. This can help rule out any potential medical conditions that may place them at risk.
- Drink enough water. Bring a water bottle to practice and games. Encourage your kids to stay well hydrated before, during and after play. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends 5 oz. for
an 88-pound child every 20 minutes, or 9 oz. for a 132-pound adolescent every 20 minutes. - Check school playgrounds. Look for age-appropriate equipment and hazards, such as rusted or broken equipment and dangerous surfaces. Report any hazards to the school or appropriate local office.
For more safety information, please call (435) 792-6510.
