Safe Kids
Pedestrian safety
Use street smarts!
When crossing the street...
- STOP at the curb or edge of the road. NEVER run into the street!
- LOOK for traffic--left, right, and left again.
- If your view of traffic is blocked by a parked car or tree, slowly move out just until you can see. LOOK for traffic -- left, right, and left again.
- WAIT until traffic is clear, then cross.
- KEEP ON LOOKING both ways until you've safely crossed the street.
- Use sidewalks.
- Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic. This is very important where there are no sidewalks.
- Cross at the corner when possible.
- Watch for cars backing out of driveways and parking lot spaces.
- Children should be advised by their parents as to which streets are safe to cross.
- If you must be out at night -- be seen. Carry a flashlight and wear retro-reflective material on your clothes. Look for this safety fabric in hardware, sporting goods, or fabric stores.
Tips about young children
- Young children believe if they can see a driver, a driver can see them.
- They think cars can stop instantly.
- They can't tell where sounds come from.
- Few can judge how fast traffic is moving.
- Their field of vision is one-third that of adults.
- They don't recognize danger or react to it.
- Very young children see cars as friendly, living creatures.