The air is buzzing with excitement as families prepare for the new school year. August arrives with its back-to-school vibes, filling homes with the familiar hustle of buying supplies, organizing schedules, and rekindling that sense of anticipation for what's to come. Amidst the flurry of activity, it's a timely reminder that August also marks National Traffic Awareness Month. As kids don their backpacks and hop on bikes or walk to school, it's crucial to refocus on traffic safety to ensure that everyone remains safe.

Increased Presence of Children

• The start of the school year means more children crossing streets or biking in residential areas and around schools. Drivers need to be aware of their presence and exercise patience and caution, particularly during morning and afternoon commutes.

School Buses on the Move

• School buses make frequent stops to pick up and drop off children, requiring drivers to understand local stop sign laws. It's vital to remain vigilant, and never attempt to pass a stopped school bus. Remember, a school bus stop is a place of safety for the children it serves.

Managing Chaotic Drop-Offs and Pickups

• School zones and parking lots can be chaotic with parents dropping off or picking up their children. Stay alert, exercise patience, and follow school-specific traffic rules to ensure safety for all.

Encouraging Safe Habits Among Children

• Encourage conversations with your children about walking and biking safely. Remind them to use crosswalks, wear helmets, and avoid distractions such as phones or headphones when they’re on the move.

Supporting New Drivers

• Many student drivers taking their wheels to school for the first time require additional space and understanding from experienced drivers. Providing them with a safe environment to learn is part of our collective responsibility.

Taking these simple but meaningful actions can lead to safer commutes for everyone. Traffic safety is a shared responsibility, and every small change in your daily routine can pave the way for a safer community for our children. Let's use this season as an opportunity to lead by example.