Stay on the Path to Safety When Walking to and From School

These days, many kids walk to school by themselves or come home to an empty house. If you’re one of these kids, there are ways to make your before- and after-school time safer.

Whether you walk all the way to school or just to a bus stop, it’s best to go with a brother or sister or a friend, rather than by yourself.

“It’s better to walk with a buddy. There’s safety in numbers,� says Pam Bryant, manager of community education at Children’s Hospital of Orange County.

Bryant recommends having parents map out a safe route to school, with crossing guards at street intersections. Never dart out between parked cars, because drivers can’t see you. Don’t take shortcuts through deserted areas, such as alleys or vacant lots.

Most kids know the rules about not accepting gifts or rides from strangers. Kids also need to know they should ignore questions from strangers--adults should not ask children for directions. Any child who is stopped by a stranger for any reason should get away and get help.

Kids who ride bikes to school should wear helmets and ride in designated bike lanes or on the sidewalk.

Get off your bike at crosswalks and let the guard walk you.

If you are alone after school, your parents can set up rules for your daily routine. It’s a good idea to contact a parent or neighbor as soon as you get home. Get permission from your parents ahead of time if you plan to go to a friend’s house. Other safety tips: Don’t use the stove or any fire; don’t have other children over when your parents are not home; do not answer the door or let callers know you are alone. Bryant also suggests that kids who are home alone not shower or take a bath (because you could slip and get hurt).

Bryant says that there’s nothing wrong with admitting you do not want to be alone after school. Talk to your parents about other arrangements if you are uncomfortable being by yourself. Most communities offer after-school programs for kids of all ages.

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Kid Health runs the third Monday of the month. E-mail Emily Dwass at [email protected].

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