The A-B-Cs of Back-to-School Safety
The yellow buses are back on the roads and students have been returning to the classrooms. Late August is a great time to review back to school safety for children and parents.
Transportation
The National Safety Council (NSC) advises that whether children walk, ride their bicycle or take the bus to school, it is extremely important that they take proper safety precautions.
- Walkers should walk on the sidewalk (if one is available), stay on the left side facing traffic and stay alert.
- Bicyclists should always wear a properly fitting helmet and bright clothing. They should ride on the right side of the road – single file.
- Bus riders should stand six free or three giant steps away from the curb while waiting for the bus. They are to always remain seated on the bus. They should never cross in front of the bus unless they are at least 10 feet ahead of the bus so the driver can see them.
- The area 10 feet around the bus is the most dangerous for children. Never pass a school bus from behind if it is stopped unloading children. If the yellow or red lights are flashing, traffic must stop.
School Tips
- Choose backpacks that are ergonomically designed to enhance safety and comfort. Both straps should be worn to evening distribute the weight on their shoulders.
- When filled, the backpack should not weigh more than 5% to 10% of the child’s body weight.
- Rolling backpacks can create a tripping hazard in crowded school hallways.
Playground and Sports
- Necklaces and jackets with drawstrings should be left indoors to reduce the risk of strangulation.
- While bumps and bruises are normal, never ignore head injuries.
Illnesses
While some children are able to stay healthy during the summer months, many usher in the new school year with an illness or two. Common complaints include colds, sore throats and stomach bugs,
“While children probably have an illness or two in the next 10 months, there are ways to reduce exposure to germs,” said Karrie Kiskaddon, MD, a board-certified Family Medicine physician at Penn Highlands Healthcare. “Practicing hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette as well as ensuring that vaccinations are up-to-date are great wellness strategies.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), effective hand hygiene involves frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or alcohol-based sanitizer – particularly before eating or after using the restroom or coughing and sneezing. They also advise people to cough and sneeze into their elbow or use tissues and dispose of them properly.
Most schools require proof of vaccinations. It is a great idea to check if your child’s immunization record is current or if boosters are required.
The CDC also urges parents to keep their children home from school when they have fever, vomiting, diarrhea or other concerning symptoms. It is best to be familiar with the school’s specific guidelines regarding illness. Some schools require a doctor’s excuse when students miss multiple days.
When you need a doctor, Penn Highlands Healthcare provides family medicine and pediatric care for children and adolescents. From medical care for a sick child to annual physicals and immunizations, Penn Highlands Healthcare provides comprehensive care throughout Pennsylvania. To learn more, visit www.phhealthcare.org/findadoc.
