School Safety: Protecting Children Against Personal Injuries In Seminole
The end of summer means local children are heading back to school. This can be a major adjustment, both for them and their parents. Between shopping for supplies, arranging activities, and signing activity slips, spend some time considering your child’s general safety. Our Seminole personal injury attorney offers tips to help ensure this school year is a healthy one.
Preventing Pedestrian Accidents In Pinellas County
Whether your child walks, takes the bus, or you drive them to school, be aware that the next few months hold a heightened risk for pedestrian accident injuries. According to the National Safety Council, children are among the most common victims of pedestrian accidents and the numbers tend to spike at this time of year. Tips that can help to protect them include:
- Make sure they are aware of pedestrian accident risks and basic precautions, such as using sidewalks at all times and crossing only at designated intersections;
- If they walk to school, review the route in advance and avoid areas with heavy traffic;
- If they take the bus, remind them to stand six feet from the curb when waiting and to always ensure the bus driver sees them before stepping into the street;
- If you drive them, go to the designated drop-off and pick-up areas, rather than letting your children off across the street.
Wearing light, bright colors also helps to reduce pedestrian accident risks in Pinellas County. Children should know to look left, right, then left again before crossing streets. They should also avoid any distractions, such as wearing earbuds. This could prevent them from hearing honking horns or other signs of impending danger.
Protecting Children Against Sports And Recreational Injuries
Classes resume for children in the Pinellas County Schools on August 10, 2022. Many have already begun school-related sports and recreational activities. While these can provide a great form of physical fitness, important lessons on teamwork, and potential scholarship opportunities, it is important to ensure programs are safe. Parents are encouraged to follow these tips:
- Carefully review programs and activities to ensure they are appropriate for your child’s age, general health, and skill;
- Meet with coaches and instructors in advance;
- Ask how they handle accidents or injuries and inform them that you want to be notified immediately of any issues with your child;
- Make sure facilities and play surfaces are appropriate and well-maintained;
- Inquire as to what protective gear will be provided;
- Make sure your child will receive proper training and that it is adequate time to warm up prior to activities;
- Considering hot temperatures are likely to continue for the next few months, make sure children have access to water and shade.
When Accidents Happen, Our Seminole Personal Injury Attorney Is Here To Help
Accidents can happen despite your precautions. When reckless and negligent behavior on the part of others is to blame, reach out to The Reep Law Firm. Our experienced Pinellas County personal injury attorneys help you get the compensation you need to cover medical expenses and other costs. To request a consultation, call or contact our office online today.
Source:
nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/school-safety/school-safety-home
pcsb.org/
