Crosswalk Safety: Essential Tips for Parents and Children

Crosswalk safety is critical for ensuring children get to and from school safely. Teaching children how to navigate crosswalks can help prevent accidents and encourage safer walking and biking habits. 

Here are some important safety reminders for pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooter/skateboard riders when navigating crosswalks:

1. Stop at the Curb
   
   Teach your child to always stop at the curb before crossing the street. Darting into the crosswalk without stopping is dangerous. One of the most common mistakes children make is entering a crosswalk without first checking their surroundings.
    
2. Push the Button
   
   If the crosswalk has a pedestrian signal or flashing beacon, remind your child to push the button to activate it. At intersections with pedestrian signals, they should wait for the "walk" sign—either the word "WALK" or a lit pedestrian figure. Even when the signal indicates it’s safe to cross, children should stay alert for turning vehicles.
    
3. Look and Listen Before You Step
   
   Before stepping into the street, children should look left, right, and left again. If at a multi-lane intersection, they should also check behind and ahead for any turning vehicles. 
    
4. Wait for Gaps in Traffic
   
   At intersections without signals, it’s crucial to wait for a clear gap in traffic. Never assume that drivers see you. Cars need time to react and come to a full stop. It’s safest to wait until all cars have stopped before crossing, and making eye contact with drivers can help ensure they are aware of people waiting to cross.
    
5. Go Slow
   Pedestrians should walk, not run, across the intersection. Bicyclists should either dismount and walk their bikes or ride slowly, at pedestrian speeds.
    
6. Keep Scanning
   As you cross each lane of the road, continue looking both ways. Just because one car has stopped doesn’t mean others in different lanes have noticed you. Always check for cars in every lane, including parking lanes.
    

VIDEO: 10 Things to Make Crosswalks Safer

Tips for Drivers:

Drivers play a critical role in keeping kids safe. Here are some reminders for drivers near crosswalks:

• Stay Alert and Minimize Distractions: Avoid distractions, especially when driving in school zones or near crosswalks. Stay focused on the road and your surroundings.
• Stop for Pedestrians: It’s the law. Always come to a full stop when people are in the crosswalk.
• Park Wisely: Ensure visibility around crosswalks by parking at least 10 feet away from them.

Set an Example for Your Child

Parents can model safe behavior by practicing these habits while walking or biking with their children. This helps reinforce the techniques kids need to stay safe and builds good habits for future independence.

A Community Effort

Crosswalk safety is a shared responsibility. By taking it slow, staying aware, and practicing safe crossing habits, we can help ensure everyone arrives safely at school. Let’s work together to keep our children safe!