Robyn Taylor, GWGVFD Member

It’s that time of year again when beach bags are traded for backpacks and the rush for school supplies has ended. The Gaithersburg Washington Grove Volunteer Fire Department wants to help you make this the safest school year yet! Here are a few pointers on how to make that happen.

›Remember you must stop for all school buses when the red lights are flashing and the stop sign is out. This means you MUST stop even if the school bus is on the other side of the street if there is no median or a break in the median. Remind your child to stay on the sidewalk while waiting for the school bus. They should not wait on the curb, in the street or even sitting on the curb. Children need to look both ways before crossing a street to make sure no cars are coming.

›Have your child use both straps on their backpacks and load backpacks with the heaviest books towards their back to help prevent back injuries.

›Stranger Danger! Remind your child not to accept rides or talk to any adult they do not know. They should only accept rides if you say it is ok! You can give your child a secret word to use when they are going somewhere with another adult. They need to ask the adult what the secret word is and should only go with them if they know it. Make this word something your child will remember but is not common! If you are not home when school lets out make sure your child knows they have to call you by a certain time so you know they are home safely. Remind children to not allow strangers into the house! The police and fire department will show ID before talking to your child or coming into your home. Tell children not to tell anyone who calls that you are not home, instead tell them you are busy and can’t come to the phone. If your child walks home to and from school have them walk with a friend. The buddy system should be in place at all times! If someone does attempt to take your child or force them into a car tell them to yell “FIRE” instead of “HELP” studies have shown people are more likely to respond to a yell of a fire than one of help!

›If you child tells you they are being bullied or you have suspicions they are then talk to your child about it along with their teachers and principal.

›Make sure your child has a healthy filling lunch to eat. If times get tough remember the schools do provide low cost or free lunches! Also, a healthy breakfast keeps them full and helps them focus better so they can learn more. Most schools also provide low cost or free breakfast to children.

Have a safe and happy school year from your friends at GWGVFD!