Pedestrian Safety
Walking is great exercise, but pedestrians, especially children and teenagers, are particularly vulnerable to traffic-related injury or death. Teens have a death rate twice that of younger children and account for half of all child pedestrian deaths.
Pedestrian injuries are the fifth leading cause of death for children ages 5-19.
Distracted Walking
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Teach kids to put phones, headphones and devices down when crossing the street.
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Pull headphones down or turn off the volume before crossing the street.
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If kids need to use a cell phone, teach them to stop walking and find a safe area to talk.
Walking Safely
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Cross the street at the corner or at a crosswalk if there is one, and obey all traffic signals.
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Walk on a sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the street, facing oncoming traffic.
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Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before crossing. Do not assume vehicles will stop.
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Only cross in front of a school bus when the driver says it is safe. Do not cross behind the bus or where the driver can't see you.
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Walk with an adult until you are at least 10 years old.
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Hold an adult's hand when you cross the street. Look left, right, and left again before you cross and keep looking both ways until you reach the other side.
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If you walk when it is dark, wear light-colored clothing or reflective material so drivers can see you. A flashlight is also a good idea.
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If a toy or pet goes out into the street, ask an adult for help getting it back.
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Play in a backyard or playground away from the street or parking lots.