ASBURY PARK- - - Children across the area are heading back to school and the Asbury Park Fire Department is asking drivers to exercise extra caution as the
school year begins. “Safety is our top priority. With schools back in session, drivers
should allow extra time and be on the look-out for kids at intersections and in
roadways. Additionally, as a matter of safety and
compliance with laws, drivers are reminded to put their cell phones down and refrain
from talking or texting while driving.
For Drivers
- Be alert and slow down. Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings. Put down your phone and don’t talk or text while driving.
- Exercise extra caution as you head out to work and be on the lookout for school buses. Many bus routes or schedules change each year and you may encounter a school bus or stop where you may have never seen one before. Be alert. For many children this may be the first time they have ever traveled on a bus.
- Each passenger should wear a seat belt and/or ride in an age and size-appropriate car safety seat or booster seat. Children of all ages are safest when properly restrained in the backseat.
- Take extra time when making a right turn on a red light. This can be a dangerous situation for pedestrians.
- School Zones: Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods and around schools. Be alert to children as you back out of your driveway or exit your garage.
- Expect delays near schools, plan ahead and allow extra time to reach your destination.
- Safety on the road is
especially important for “new” drivers that may be driving to school for
the first time.
Reminders for Parents and Children
- Be realistic about your child’s pedestrian skills. Children are not always aware of their surroundings and may dart into traffic assuming drivers will see and stop for them. Carefully consider whether your child is ready to walk to school or wait for the bus without adult supervision and walk the route with your child beforehand.
- Children often have a hard time judging speed and distance and should cross the street with an adult until they are at least 10 years old. Teach children to always cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks and look left, right and left again before crossing.
- If traveling to school by bike, obey the rules of the road and wear a helmet! Not only is it the smart thing to do, it is also the law in New Jersey.
- Be sure that your child knows his or her phone number and address, your work number and when to call 911 for emergencies.
- Only drive or park in authorized areas when picking up or dropping off students at school.
- Be a good neighbor. Respect private property and always be on your best behavior while waiting for the bus.
School Bus Safety – What
Motorists Should Know
All motorists are required by law
to stop when the red lights on buses are flashing. Passing a school bus when the red lights are
flashing is not only illegal it is also one of the biggest threats to student
safety. Motorists should be aware that the red flashing lights and the
stop
sign may be engaged shortly after the amber lights are on. Vehicles
traveling
in the same direction as the bus are always required to stop. In New Jersey the law states that vehicles must come to a complete stop on
both sides of the roadway if there
is no physical divider or barrier. Violations can result in a citation and
fine.
Home Alone
Parents need to carefully consider the pros and cons of having a child stay home alone before/after school. Be familiar with laws and child protective policies and, because children mature at different rates, your decision should not be based on age alone. Children should master important safety skills before staying home alone. Be sure to make and practice a home fire escape plan that includes a designated “safe” area outside where everyone will meet if the smoke alarm sounds and ensure they know when and how to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Unattended cooking continues to be a leading cause of home fires and firefighters strongly recommend having after school snacks on hand that do not require cooking. Children should only use kitchen appliances while under close adult supervision.
