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Pedestrian Safety 101

jefferson_1_school_crosswalk.jpgWhether your kids are walking to and from school, or over to a friend's house, it is important for them to be as safe as possible. A road sign or school crossing sign should ensure that drivers lower their speeds, but it is important to educate children about pedestrian safety as well.

Protect Yourself. Sadly, pedestrian injuries are the fifth leading cause of injury-related death in America. Statistically, teenagers are at the greatest risk. Here are some easy to follow pedestrian safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Look both ways―Teach kids at an early age to look left, right, and then left again before crossing any street.
  • Phones down and headphones out―Teach children and teens to take their headphones out and put phones and other electronics down before crossing the street. Kids need to understand that though these devices are fun, they are dangerous distractions for a pedestrian.
  • Cross at designated areas―It is always best to walk on the sidewalks and cross at street corners. If possible, cross where there is a school crossing sign and be sure to utilize all crosswalks and traffic signals. If no sidewalk is available, it is best to walk facing traffic as far from the road as possible.
  • Do not cross without an adult―Children under 10 should always have adult supervision when crossing the street. Developmentally, a majority of children cannot judge the distance and speed of an oncoming car until age 10.
  • Be a good role model―Kids learn more from your actions than your words. Set a good example for your children by following the tips above.

Make sure you and your kids do everything possible to maintain safety on the roadway!

Crossing signs offered at Zumar Industries. Zumar has been a proud manufacturer of signs and traffic-safety products since 1947. Our high-quality traffic and school safety signs meet strict federal requirements relating to reflectivity, design, mounting height, and size to ensure the safety of both drivers and pedestrians alike.

If you are looking to purchase a school crossing sign to increase pedestrian safety around your school, please browse our school signs or contact an experienced signage representative at Zumar today!