(Franklin, GA) — Heard County schools resume normal activities this week and everyone is reminded to review the following safety tips regarding buses, driving, and other important reminders courtesy of local law enforcement.
“First, I would like to start off by welcoming all new students, faculty and staff members to Brave Nation! I speak on behalf of all our local law enforcement officers when I say that we look forward to meeting each of you and working with all of you in the near future,” states Franklin Police Chief Kevin Hannah.
“It’s that time of year again to remind everyone of a few safety tips. Chief Hannah and myself have put together a list that includes school bus safety tips and tips for student drivers. Parents, please take a few minutes and go over these safety points with your children. If we all follow these simple rules and obey all traffic laws, we can make everyone’s daily travels safe and enjoyable,” states Heard County Sheriff Ross Henry.
School Bus Safety
Get out of bed on time so you don’t have to rush to the bus stop
Arrive at the bus stop five minutes early
Stand about 5 giant steps (@10 ft.) away from the roadway
Wait until the bus completely stops and the door opens before going towards the bus
Walk- don’t run to the bus
Use the hand rails when entering or exiting the bus
If you have to cross in front of the bus to get on, don’t walk directly in front of the bus- make sure you are about 5 giant steps if front of the bus so the driver can safely see you
Look both ways before you cross the street
Never walk behind the school bus
Never fight, push or shove others while waiting in line
Keep feet, books, lunch boxes & book bags out of the aisle
Talk quietly to others while on the bus
Keep hands and head inside the bus
Remain seated while the bus is moving
Do not distract the bus driver by yelling or screaming
Know where the emergency exit door and windows are located
Always obey the bus driver
Walking to School
Plan the shortest and safest route to walk to school
Walk with a friend or someone you know. Never walk alone
Do not stop at vacant lots, houses or to talk with strangers
Do not take a ride from a stranger
Do not wear headphones, i-pods, or use cell phones while walking to school
Be mindful of all traffic
Obey all traffic signs and signals as they pertain to pedestrians
Student Drivers
Always, always – buckle up!!!!!!!
Make sure all passengers are wearing their seatbelts and smaller children are properly restrained (booster seats, car seats)
Obey all traffic laws, traffic signs and signals
Parents need to know who their child is transporting to and from school
Parents need to know their child’s route to and from school. In case there is an emergency, parents will know where to find their children
Know what time school is dismissed and the expected arrival time home for your child
Drivers need to not only pay attention to their driving, but also pay attention to other drivers & pedestrians
Know who your passengers are
Do not use your cell phones while operating a motor vehicle. This means do not read or send text messages and do not call anyone or answer any incoming calls.
Parents please keep in mind the facts below when or if your child or children must be left at home alone at any time to include before and/or after school:
Make sure your children are old enough or mature enough to be home alone and can be trusted.
Teach basic safety rules to them
Leave emergency contact numbers for the children
Make sure your child knows how and when to dial 9-1-1 and can give directions to your home in the event of an emergency.
Teach children to use the door and window locks and how to use/set the alarm system
Make sure your children know what activities are allowed while they are home alone.
Make sure your child(ren) know not to let strangers in the house or to tell someone they don’t know, that they are home alone
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