School Season Safety Published Sept. 2, 2010 By 341st Missile Wing safety office MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- It's that time of year again to talk about school safety. It doesn't matter if you're a child, a parent, or have no chldren at all; the school season affects everyone. We need to approach this season with a sense of safety because ultimately, our children are our future. Parents--Parents are the main Safety Representative when it comes to their child being safe during this season. If your child walks to school each day, be sure that they have reflective or bright colored clothes on to help them be seen. During these months the days get shorter, the skies are overcast and visibility is not at its greatest. Also, it is very wise to familiarize yourself and your children with the walk to school; explain to them about slippery surfaces, wet leaves, drops in temperature and about the buddy system. Have an emergency plan in place just in case it is ever needed. Teach your child the concept of "stranger danger." Everyone--Everyone has a responsibility now that school has started. Ask yourself what you can do to make it safer for children and teenagers going to school. A simple one would be to just slow down in school zones. People get use to driving at certain speed through them when school is out, but now it's time to shift gears and be on the lookout for students. Plus the fine for speeding in a school zone is quite hefty. Watch for school buses. Never pass school buses when they are stopped. Look for red overhead flashing lights, possibly accompanied by an extended stop arm, that tell you the school bus is stopped to load or unload children. State law requires you to stop at least 20 feet from the front or rear of a school bus when red lights are flashing and not to proceed until the school bus resumes motion or until signaled by the school bus driver to proceed. Students---If you ride a school bus, learn and practice the safety rules for waiting at the bus stop, getting on and off the bus, and riding the bus. If you walk to school, learn and practice the safety rules for pedestrians. Always cross at crosswalks or corner to corner. Obey all traffic lights or crossing guard instructions. Buckle up when you're riding in a car and ride in the back seat. It's the safest place for young people. Be a good role model for your younger brothers, sisters and friends, and help them learn and practice safety rules. Whether you're a student, parent or just a person trying to get to work, we all play a part in safety during the school season. Remember reflective clothes; be careful of slippery sidewalks, slowdown in school zones and to be a good example to younger children. Make safety a part of your life and we will all benefit from it.