PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – With school back in session soon, communities will see more school buses, bike riders and pedestrians in neighborhoods and especially near school zones.
Everyone can do their part to keep our community safe.
Below are some important safety tips from the Pasco Sheriff’s Office that can help keep our students safe throughout the school year.
- Slow down and eliminate distractions, such as phones, when walking, biking or driving in school zones.
- Take time to learn Florida’s school bus stop laws. See below graphic for additional information.
- Pedestrians and bicyclists should cross at the crosswalk where drivers expect pedestrians to cross, until the Crossing Guard or signal indicates you may pass.
- Bicyclists should dismount their bicycles and walk them within crosswalks.
- When a School Crossing Guard, Traffic Control officer, deputy or other public safety official is present at an intersection, follow their directions to safely negotiate the intersection.
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Here are some back-to-school safety tips for parents, students, and drivers:
For Parents
- Talk to your children about safety rules for walking, biking, and riding the bus to school.
- Review your family’s walking safety rules and practice walking to school with your child.
- Teach your children to never talk to strangers or get into a car with someone they don’t know.
- Make sure your children know how to call 911 in an emergency.
- Register your child’s school with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
For Students
- Walk or bike to school with a friend.
- Walk on the sidewalk, facing traffic.
- Look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
- Always cross streets at crosswalks or intersections.
- Never walk behind a parked car.
- If you are walking alone, stay in well-lit areas.
- If you feel unsafe, call 911.
For Drivers
- Obey school zone speed limits.
- Stop for school buses that are loading or unloading children.
- Watch out for children who are walking or biking to school.
- Don’t text or talk on the phone while driving in a school zone.
Additional Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings and be on the lookout for potential hazards.
- Dress appropriately for the weather.
- Bring a backpack with essential items, such as water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
- Stay hydrated and eat healthy snacks throughout the day.
- Get enough sleep the night before school.
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