Read This With Your Kids: Safety Guide for the Maine School Year

I can't believe another school year is approaching. My son is going into second grade, and like you, I want to make sure he is safe when traveling to and from school.

I invite you to read this article with your kiddos!

As many Maine students prepare to get back into the learning groove, the American Red Cross is sharing the importance of safety during this busy season.

WGME has shared some vital tips to ensure your kiddo's safety when traveling. With the start of the school year just around the corner, it's so important for both parents and students to be aware of key safety practices, whether they're walking, biking, taking the bus, or driving to school.

Sadly, there have been too many accidents involving school buses, and in order to stay as cautious as we can, it's always good to go over the safety measures.

When I was younger, my mom would drive us down to the bus stop at the end of our road every morning, and we'd hop on the bus. She always told me that no matter what, I should never get on the bus while it's still moving. She'd say, "Elizabeth, make sure the bus is completely stopped before you hop on."

Each year, my wife and I sit down with our son to go over all the safety measures before school starts, ensuring that everything is fresh in his mind.

The American Red Cross has highlighted several safety tips below, to make sure our babies are safe while biking, walking, driving, or riding the bus to school.

Use this as a guide to sit down with your child and review these safety measures together.

Walking and Biking Safety

For the kids walking to school, the Red Cross says to make sure they use sidewalks whenever possible. But if there are no sidewalks to walk along the edge of the road, always face the traffic. Make sure to also use crosswalks, and look both ways before crossing the street.

For those biking, remember that wearing a helmet is a must! Ride on the right side of the road, go with traffic, and if you know them, use hand signals!

School Bus Safety

If you take the bus, make sure to arrive as early as you can to ensure you won't miss it. We all know there are days where you can't help but run late, but being early will help you feel comfortable as well as your child.

When the bus comes, wait until it's at a complete stop to hop on.

And when you get off the bus, you should walk at least ten feet in front of the bus before crossing the street, ensuring you can see the driver clearly and the driver can see you!

Driving Safety

For parents driving, it’s important to be extra cautious in school zones and at crossings now that school is officially in session.

Above all, take your time on the road, and kids, remember to be yourselves, stay safe, and enjoy learning!

Check out the entire checklist from the American Red Cross here!