As schools begin, safe driving needs to rev up, too Published Aug. 8, 2014 By Chris Tirey 88th Air Base Wing Safety WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Oh. -- Across the Miami Valley, area schools will soon begin the new academic year. Vehicle operators must pay undivided attention to their surroundings as students walking to and from school or the bus stop may not have pedestrian safety foremost in their minds. Remember, children may not be wearing clothing that lends itself to a high degree of visibility and most likely don't have a wealth of risk-avoidance experience to rely upon. Also, it is often difficult for them to judge distances and vehicle speeds, causing them to misjudge when it is safe to cross the street. Drivers must offset the potential for tragedy by exercising extreme caution at all times, especially when in proximity to schools or bus stops. School zone speed limits must be strictly adhered to. It is of equal importance to make sure children understand their role in ensuring their own safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides the following guidance: Young children often cannot judge the speed, distance, and size of oncoming vehicles. Teach them that it's best to allow an oncoming vehicle to pass, and then wait for a new green light or WALK signal. The green light or WALK signal means that children should stop at the curb or edge of the road, look both ways for oncoming traffic, and then -- if it's safe -- they can cross the street. Having the WALK signal or green light does not guarantee that cars will stop. Pedestrians must always look for oncoming traffic even when they have the right of way. Before crossing the street, children may want to wait for a "fresh green light." This means that they wait for the next new WALK signal if the DON'T WALK sign is flashing. Doing this gives them the most time to cross. If children are in the middle of the street and the DON'T WALK signal flashes, they shouldn't stop or return to the curb or edge of the road. They should continue to walk at their maximum comfortable pace until they reach the other side. Teach them not to run; they might fall. And remember -- children crossing the street should be accompanied by an adult whenever possible. Please do your part to make this school year a safe, rewarding experience for all.