Back to school safety: Watch out for children

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Michelle Humann
  • 341st Missile Wing Safety
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  School is in session and though different age groups have different opinions on this momentous occasion, the time is coming where adults within the Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen need to watch out for children.

Getting to school is very much a point of interest concerning the safety of children. Children should be taught to obey all traffic signs and to not play in the street while waiting for the bus. Parents should be aware of the route required for children to get to the bus or school. Getting out to learn that procedure is also a great opportunity to bond with little ones. Also, parents should be aware that lots of drivers don't have children and have no idea that school is in session. Taking a proactive approach and teaching children to expect the worst can help them mitigate the risks of getting to school. Be aware of the speed limit in those areas and pay attention for school buses that have stopped and have flashing lights. Remember that many mishaps occur while novice teen drivers are going to and from school. Try to limit the number of teen passengers to prevent driver distraction.

Once children are at school, expect them to be exposed to illness-causing pathogens. According to the Federal Citizen Information Center, the top five reasons children miss school is because of colds, stomach flu, ear infection, pink eye and sore throat. Though childhood illnesses, as a whole, are unavoidable, proper and thorough hand-washing is a simple way to avoid a lot of discomfort. Remember, whatever children encounter at school is what they bring home. Scheduling regular doctor exams for children is a great way to keep kids from developing something small that turns into something serious.

Be aware that school is in session. Lots of children will be in unexpected places that may not seem normal after driving to work over the course of the summer. Young pedestrians and bicyclists may not adhere to common street signs; therefore, teach children to understand what these mean and adults should be extra careful while heading to work. Hand-washing is crucial. Whether dodging the flu or a simple sore throat, keeping hands regularly clean and sanitized is necessary to keep those shiny faces happy and smiling.