Students in Naperville and across the country are getting ready to go back to school, making this the perfect time to remind students, parents and the community about the Naperville Police Department’s August Safer Naper topic: Back-to-School Safety.
General Back to School Tips
No matter what a student’s age, be sure to discuss important safety information with your student before sending them off to school. All children should know their address and a parent’s phone number. In these times of smart phone contact lists, it is important children have a phone number memorized. Also, children should be reminded that they should always walk to and from school with an adult or a group, regardless of their age. There is safety in numbers, so use the buddy system.
Tips for College-Bound Students
Before sending your student off to campus, review personal safety guidelines and their school’s security measures. All university campuses must have a method of communicating emergencies and safety concerns to students. Encourage your young adult to review their school’s provided materials (some even have an app) and protocols and know exactly how to access them in case of an emergency. Also encourage them to practice safe social media. Some teens (and even some adults) put their entire lives online, but there are some details that should be left out. Make sure tracking and location settings on devices are off, and privacy settings on social media are on.
Tips for Motorists
Back to school time means school buses will be back on the roads and students will be walking or biking to school. Whether you are a newer or seasoned driver, keep distractions to a minimum and don’t multi-task. Keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Remember Illinois law prohibits the use of handheld cellphones, texting or using other electronic communication while operating a motor vehicle. Hands-free devices (Bluetooth) are allowed for persons 19 and older.
Be cautious for children waiting at the bus stop, and when the bus is stopped children entering or exiting. Remember it is illegal to proceed around a school bus with the stop arm engaged.
Finally, drivers need to slow down. Allow for extra time to reach your destination. School speed zones are reduced to 20 mph. When entering a school zone, be extra alert for children walking and on bicycles. Be on the lookout in school zones for crossing guards and school student safety patrols. Always come to a complete stop at stop signs and be sure to check carefully for children on sidewalks and in crosswalks before proceeding.
Additional back-to-school safety tips for parents, students and motorists are available at naperville.il.us/asafernaper.
Until next month… Be safe and be aware.
