As many normal activities have continued to require careful consideration as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, parents are now challenged with “Back To School” and what that means for their children and their families. 

“We know there is a lot to manage during this time, and it can feel like there is very little in your control. But whether your child will be attending school at home, in-person or a combination of the two, we want to help make sure they stay injury-free. Remember it is important to make injury prevention part of your Back To School plan. That is something you can control”, says Thilda Nel (Executive Director, ChildSafe).

With a new school term about to start, now is the perfect time to take a few minutes to remind your children how they can stay safe when going to school, whether they walk, bike, take the bus/train or ride in a carpool or use scholar transport. No matter how your children get to school, make sure they are safe and prepared to make the trip. 

ChildSafe reminds all parents and caregivers to ALWAYS teach their children to:

• Look left, right and left again before crossing the road. 
• Walk on sideways or paths and crossroads using traffic signals and pedestrian crossings, where possible.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road.
• Avoid using cell phones and headphones when walking near and around cars and to be aware of their surroundings.
• Wear a properly fitted helmet when biking to school. 
• Wait for the bus/train to come to a complete stop before entering or disembarking.

Drivers should ALWAYS:

• Ensure that children under the age of 12 are properly buckled-up in the back seat. 
• Adhere to speed limits and drive slowly in residential areas and school zones.
• Look out for pedestrians while driving.

For more information on injury prevention, call ChildSafe at 021 685 5208 or please visit www.childsafe.org.za