Both area schools will be resuming classes this week and local residents are reminded to be on the lookout for school bus transportation. For the Manchester Local School District, classes will begin for students on Thursday, August 17th. In the Adams County/Ohio Valley School District, classes will resume on Friday, August 18th.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that school buses are the safest way for children to travel to and from school. The majority of school bus-related injuries occur while students are boarding and getting off the bus. Over the last 10 years, the NHTSA says nearly two-thirds of school-age pedestrians who were fatally injured by school buses or other vehicles were hurt after being struck while entering or exiting the bus.
While at the bus stop, children must remember to stay at least five large steps away from the road and wait to board until the driver says so. When leaving the bus, students should make sure there is no oncoming traffic and wait for a signal from the bus driver before crossing busy streets.
While on the bus, observe the rules and stay seated at all times. Keep the center aisle clear of backpacks.
Experts also say to choose an ergonomically designed backpack to enhance safety and comfort. Backpacks should weigh no more than 5 to 10 percent of the child’s body weight, advises the National Safety Council. Rolling backpacks should be avoided since they are a tripping hazard.
With a new school year on the horizon, students and their parents can discuss school safety so the year starts off on the right foot.
