As we gear up for another school year, the Washington County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) encourages you to prioritize safety on your journey to and from school. Whether you walk, bike, drive, or ride the bus, we want you to have a safe and successful academic year. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:
Plan Your Route: Take some time to plan your route to and from school. Identify safe and well-lit paths, intersections with crossing guards, and areas with sidewalks or designated pedestrian crossings. By planning ahead, you can ensure a safer commute.
Listen, Look, and Be Seen: When crossing roads or walking in busy areas, listen for oncoming traffic, look both ways before crossing, and make yourself visible by wearing bright or reflective clothing. Though using headphones or being focused on your phone may be tempting, staying alert and aware of your surroundings is important.
Brush Up on Bicycle Safety:
- If you ride a bicycle to school, always wear a helmet and follow traffic rules.
- Use designated bike lanes or ride on the right side of the road, going with the flow of traffic.
- Signal your turns, be cautious at intersections, and ensure your bicycle is in good working condition.
Have a Safety Plan: Discuss safety protocols and emergency plans with your parents or guardians. Establish a designated meeting place in case of an emergency, such as severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Planning ahead will help everyone stay calm and connected during potential emergencies.
Save the Non-Emergency Dispatch Phone Number: Save your local non-emergency dispatch phone number in your phone. You can quickly contact the appropriate authorities if you ever need to report a non-life-threatening situation or require assistance.
We urge parents and guardians to discuss these important safety measures with their children. Working together can ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone in our community.
Wishing you all a successful and safe academic year!
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