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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 arrive safely.
Children should not cross the street alone until at least 10 years of age or older. After age 10, they should only cross alone if an adult feels they are ready. 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, like a sidewalk or walking path. If a sidewalk is not available, you can 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.
How to Cross the Street Safely:
- Look left, right, and left again to make sure the path is clear
- Keep looking left and right as you walk
- Use these rules when crossing driveways, roads, alleys, and bike paths
Avoid distractions - do not walk while looking at your phone. Avoid walking and talking on the phone or listening to music. Pay attention to the sounds around you, including cars and sirens.
Cross train tracks at designated crossing points. Only cross if the gates are up and you do not hear or see a train coming. Never cross in front of a train to beat it as the train may be closer than you think.
Wait for the train signals to clear before crossing. Once you begin crossing, keep moving - do not stop on the train tracks!
Cross the street at crosswalks or corners. If crossing a street with traffic signals, look for the walk signal. Only cross when the walk signal is present. 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.