Paving the Way to School: Intermountain Health's Guide to Safe Walking for Kids

The yellow school buses are back on the road, backpacks are packed, and the air is buzzing with the energy of a new school year! For many children, walking to school is a cherished daily ritual – a chance to get some fresh air, socialize with friends, and enjoy a bit of independence. However, with this freedom comes the vital responsibility of safety.

Intermountain Health experts are stepping up to remind families about crucial precautions to ensure every child’s walk to school is as safe as it is fun.

“Walking to school offers fantastic health benefits, promoting physical activity and mental well-being,” says an Intermountain Health expert.

“But busy streets, distracted drivers, and sometimes the children themselves can pose risks. Our goal is to empower both kids and parents with the knowledge to navigate their journey safely.”

Here are Intermountain Health’s top tips for a secure school commute on foot:

• Master the "Look Left, Right, Left" Rule: This age-old adage is paramount.

  Teach children to always stop at the curb, look left, then right, then left again for traffic before crossing the street. Ensure they make eye contact with drivers to confirm they’ve been seen.

• Stick to Sidewalks: Whenever possible, instruct children to walk on the sidewalk. If there isn't one, they should walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, making them more visible to drivers.
• Be Bright and Be Seen: Especially during early mornings or late afternoons when light is low, encourage kids to wear bright-colored clothing.

  Reflective gear or accessories can significantly increase their visibility to motorists.

• Power Down and Pay Attention: Personal electronic devices – phones, headphones, portable games – are major distractions. Children should put them away and remain fully aware of their surroundings, including traffic sounds and what's happening around them.
• Walk in Numbers: Encourage children to walk with a buddy, a group of friends, or an older sibling.

  There’s safety in numbers, and it makes the journey more enjoyable.

• Practice the Safest Route: Before the school year kicks off, walk the route to school with your child. Identify safe crossing points, traffic signals, and any potential hazards. Rehearse the safest path until they are comfortable and confident.
• Obey All Traffic Signals and Crossing Guards: Emphasize the importance of following traffic lights, stop signs, and the instructions of crossing guards.

  These individuals are there to protect them.

• Avoid Talking to Strangers: Remind children about the importance of not engaging with unknown individuals, and to report any suspicious behavior to a trusted adult immediately.

By integrating these practices into their daily routine, children can enjoy the numerous benefits of walking to school while minimizing risks.

Parents play a crucial role in modeling safe behavior and reinforcing these guidelines. With a little preparation and consistent reinforcement, Intermountain Health believes every child can have a safe, active, and happy journey to and from school.