the tracks; don’t be distracted by cell phones or headphones. Approach all crossings carefully and be prepared to stop 15 feet behind the crossing gates. Never try to beat a train through a railroad crossing.

Bike, Bus, Walk

Walking It is best for children under the age of 10 to be accompanied by a parent or adult when crossing the street. Playing and running into the street should be prohibited. Children should be instructed to stay on the sidewalk, only cross at a cross walk,

Reduce distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.

Tips for Getting to School Safely, from the Sonoma County Superintendent of Schools

By Steven D. Herrington, Ph.D.

W

ith the start of a new school year upon us, families across the county are relying on a variety of ways to get their kids to school. Rather than driving single-family vehicles, many families opt for walking, biking, riding the school bus, or carpooling. These options take a burden off the environment and help ease traffic congestion. Walking and biking are particularly eco-friendly and give kids the physical activity they need. However, these alternative routes to school come with certain risks that families should keep in mind: In the United States in 2009, approximately 23,000 children ages 5–15 were injured and more than 250 were killed while walking or bicycling. That said, motor vehicle crashes are still the leading cause of death in school-age children, so no travel mode comes without risk. Thankfully, knowledge can minimize the risk. In that spirit, I am sharing some tips for safely getting children to the classroom. Train With the new SMART train up and running, railroad track safety is now more important than ever in Sonoma County. When crossing railroad tracks, stop, look, and listen for approaching trains. Kids should 10 SonomaFamilyLife

be taught never to play, sleep, walk, or ride their bicycles on railroad tracks. Although trains may not seem fast, they move at speeds of 65 mph or more; it can take over a mile for them to stop. Stay alert when near

and look for cars before stepping into the cross walk. The proper way to look for a car is to look to the left, to the right, and then back to the left again. It is important to continue looking while crossing in case a car approaches. Tell children to never assume that a driver sees them or that the driver will stop. As with all pedestrians, children should never walk with their backs to oncoming traffic if there is no sidewalk. When walking past driveways, instruct children to stay alert for cars backing out. Biking Choose a bicycle that is appropriate for your child’s age and size. Helmets and protective gear are also critical. Helmets should be level on the head, buckled, and covering the forehead. Additionally, children should wear bright clothing to help make them more visible. At least one item of clothing should contain some type of reflective material

September 2017 www.sonomafamilylife.com