The kids are out of school, and now it is time for playdates, road trips, bike rides and walks. Summer break means that more kids will be on the roads, in the pools, headed to camps and sitters, and playing outside.Â
Allentown Toyota has tips to help keep your kids safe on summer break.
In the Car
The car can be a deadly place for children. Now that kids are on summer break, a parent or caregiver will be transporting the children around more often. It is important to maximize a child’s safety when they are in the car.
- Make sure the child is always properly restrained, always. There are no exceptions to the car seat and seat belt laws.
- Use caution when you are driving in neighborhoods where kids live, walk, ride and play.
- Give pedestrians and bike riders enough room.
- Always check you blind spots and look behind your car before you back out of the driveway or garage.
- Drive the speed limit and avoid distractions.
- Remember, your child is in the car! Do WHATEVER it takes to remind yourself that your child is in the car. Some ideas include putting your bag in the back; placing the child’s bag next to you in the front of the car; creating an alert on your phone; sticking a sticker on your steering wheel or car keys; putting one shoe in the back; having someone call to make sure the child has reached his or her destination.
- Never allow children to play in or around the car.
- Do not leave kids alone in the car, ever, for any reason.
On the Road
Remind your child about safety rules when they are walking, riding and playing near the road.
- Always look both ways before crossing the street.
- Don’t cross without an adult.
- Always wear a helmet and follow the rules of the road.
- Ride with your children.
- Teach children not to run in or across the street.
- Remind children not to run into the street to retrieve toys.
- Teach children to bike with traffic, and walk against traffic.
