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healthychildren.org: Pedestrian Safety Tips for Families
Pedestrian Safety
It's important to know how to keep yourself and others safe while walking. No matter your destination, use the following tips to help arrive safely.
Children should not cross the street alone until at least 10 years of age or older, and only if you feel they are ready to do so. Practice safely crossing the street with your child before allowing them to try it alone.
Encourage your child to use the buddy system or walk in groups whenever possible.
Choose a route with somewhere to walk safely, such as a sidewalk or walking path. If sidewalks are not available, walk facing towards traffic and as far from the street as possible.
Wear brightly colored clothing, backpacks, jackets, and accessories so you can be easily seen while walking. Consider adding reflectors and/or lights or carrying a flashlight if walking at dusk, in low light, or at night.
Look carefully when crossing driveways, roads, alleys, and bike paths. Look left, right, and left again to make sure the path is clear.
Avoid distractions - do not walk while looking at your phone. Avoid walking while talking on the phone or listening to music to help you pay attention to the sounds around you, including cars and/or sirens.
Cross train tracks at designated crossing points. Only cross if the gates are up and there is not a train coming. Never cross in front of a train to beat it as the train may be closer than you think.
Cross the street at crosswalks or corners. Make sure the crosswalk signal or light has the correct signal to walk across the street. Look left, right, and left again before crossing.
Do not cross the street in between parked cars. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing to be sure they see you.
Make sure your child knows to say "no" if someone they don't know offers them a ride and that they should run and yell for help if needed.
Do you have questions about pedestrian safety?
Call our FREE Safety Store Helpline at 317-274-6565. You can talk live with our staff Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM about your safety questions.