National Traffic Awareness Month: August Safety Tips

Todd Milner

As the long, lazy days of summer draw to a close and the smell of fresh school supplies fills the air, families across the nation brace for the whirlwind of the back-to-school season. It's a time marked by excitement, anticipation, and yes, a fair share of stress as everyone adjusts to new routines. Amidst this seasonal transition, August emerges as National Traffic Awareness Month, offering a timely reminder to prioritize safety during these hustle-and-bustle days.

Increased Presence of Children

  • With kids returning to school, expect to see more children crossing streets or biking in residential areas and around schools. It’s crucial to remain vigilant, especially during morning and afternoon hours when children are traveling to and from school.

School Bus Safety

  • School buses will be back in full force, making frequent stops to pick up and drop off children. Be extra vigilant around these vehicles, and remember that stop sign laws require you to halt when a bus extends its stop sign arm.

Navigating School Zones

  • Drop-off and pick-up times in school zones often lead to congested parking lots and harried parents. Patience and alertness in these areas are vital for maintaining a safe environment for everyone.

Understanding Student Drivers

  • With the start of the school year, new student drivers take to the roads. These novice drivers need extra space and understanding as they gain confidence behind the wheel.

Safety Conversations for Families

  • Parents, take this opportunity to have crucial conversations with your children about walking and biking safely. Emphasize using crosswalks, wearing helmets, and staying focused by keeping phones or devices stowed away.

Although adjusting to back-to-school routines can feel overwhelming, small changes in your daily habits can substantially improve safety for everyone. Remember, road safety is a shared responsibility, and this season is an ideal time to lead by example. By being more mindful and considerate on the roads, we can make August a safer transition month for our children and communities.