SCHOOL'S BACK IN SESSION

MDFR Offers Tips to Make the First Day Back a Safe One







(MIAMI, August 13, 2008) - It's that time of year again! Backpacks are

all the rage and students are getting ready to make the grade. As the

beginning of another school year approaches, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue

(MDFR) would like to remind both parents and kids of the importance of

make this school year a safe one. In order to ensure a safe first day

back, MDFR urges children and parents to follow these safety guidelines:







Riding the Bus



* According to the National Safety Council, last year,

approximately 26 students were killed and 9,000 were injured in

incidents involving school buses. More often than not, these deaths and

injuries occurred as children were entering and exiting the bus.

* Choose a safe place for your child to wait for the bus, located

away from traffic and the street.

* Teach children to stay away from the bus until it comes to a

complete stop and the driver signals that it is safe to enter.

* When being dropped off, children should exit the bus and walk

ten giant steps away from the bus. Keep a safe distance away from the

bus and remember that children are small, so the bus driver can see them

best when they are back away from the bus.

* Encourage them to use the handrail to enter and exit the bus.

* Children should always be aware of street traffic around them.

Drivers are required to follow certain rules of the road concerning

school buses, however, not all do. Teach them to always be alert and

take an active role in protecting themselves and watching out for their

own safety.



Biking to School



* Always wear a bicycle helmet, no matter how short or long the

ride.

* Ride on the right, in the same direction as auto traffic.

* Mind all traffic signals and the crossing guard. Never cross the

street against a light, even if there is no visible traffic.

* Walk bikes through intersections.

* Wear light colored clothing and reflective material for maximum

visibility.