Tips for Walking to School

Children Who Walk to School

Develop a buddy system for walking to an from school. Students should never walk alone. Always walk in groups with at least two or three other students. If possible, parents should walk their children to school.

Avoid Shortcuts

Students never take shortcuts or cut through alleys or across vacant lots.

Avoid Abandoned Houses

Students should try to avoid walking near abandoned houses. Never enter or play near abandoned houses.

Be Alert

Students should report anyone suspicious to school personnel or the police.

Turn on Porch Lights

Parents and neighbors should turn on porch lights and other outdoor lights before dawn and at dusk.

Be on Time

Students should be on time, everyday.

Safe Houses

Talk to neighbors and local businesses on your child's route to school and ask them if it is okay for your child to stay there in case of an emergency.

Important Phone Numbers

Be sure your children know their home phone number and address, your work and pager number and the number of another trusted adult. Put a cared with this information in their backpack and/or shoe. Make sure each child has change for a phone call or carries a telephone calling card.

After School Phone Call

If you work late, have your children call you as soon as they arrive at home after school.