As the summer comes to a close, it’s time for students to head back to school. While this can be an exciting time for many children, it’s important for parents to ensure their kids are safe as they make their way to and from school. Here are some back-to-school safety tips for parents and students to keep in mind:
- Use Safe Transportation: If you’re driving your child to school, make sure they’re buckled up properly and that you’re following all traffic laws. If your child takes the bus, remind them to stay seated while the bus is moving and to wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before getting on or off.
- Stay Indoors: In Abu Dhabi, where temperatures can be extremely hot during the day, it’s important for students to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day. This can help prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If students must be outside during the day, encourage them to stay in shaded areas and wear hats and sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun.
- Stay Hydrated: While staying indoors with air conditioning can help prevent heat-related illnesses, it’s important for students to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Encourage your child to bring a water bottle to school and remind them to drink water regularly.
- Stay Aware of Surroundings: Teach your child to be aware of their surroundings at all times, especially when walking alone or in crowded areas. They should avoid talking to strangers and be cautious of anyone who approaches them. Additionally, students should avoid bullies and verbal or physical attacks between students in class, during breaks, or lunchtime. Encourage your child to report any bullying or dangerous situations to a teacher or school official. It’s important for students to avoid physical contact, especially in dangerous areas like stairs, windows, and sharp objects to prevent serious injuries.
- Avoid Dangerous Situations: Instruct your child to avoid dangerous situations, such as accepting rides from strangers or walking alone in isolated areas. Encourage them to walk with a friend or group of friends whenever possible and under the watch of the teacher or supervisors. If they notice any suspicious behavior, they should report it to a teacher or school official immediately. It’s important for students to stay in well-lit areas and avoid shortcuts through alleys or other isolated areas.
- Use Crosswalks: Remind your child to use crosswalks and obey traffic signals when crossing the street. They should always look both ways before crossing and avoid crossing between parked cars or in other areas where drivers may not see them. Encourage your child to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street, as this can help ensure that the driver is aware of their presence and will be more likely to yield to them.
- Follow Bus Safety Guidelines: If your child takes the school bus, remind them to listen to the instructions given by the bus supervisor. They should follow any guidelines provided, such as where to board and exit the bus safely. For students who are picked up by parents or drivers, encourage them to put their bags in the trunk and ensure they are seated with their seatbelt fastened for a safe journey home.
Start the new school year off right with these helpful back-to-school safety tips. Whether you’re a parent or a student, it’s important to stay safe and comfortable in Abu Dhabi’s hot climate. With these tips, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable school year.
