(Riverton, WY) – Happy back to school season!
We were able to catch up with Riverton Police Department School Resource Officers Tyler Larsen and Christian Amos. Together, they reminded residents about school zones, including some new ones, protocol around busses and a few items parents should go over with their students.
Hear from both Officer Larsen and Amos in the player below!
🚗 Safety Tips for Motorists
- Slow down in school zones and obey posted speed limits.
- Watch for children crossing the street, especially near crosswalks and intersections.
- Stop for school buses when their red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
- Give school buses plenty of room and never pass a stopped bus illegally.
- Put your phone down and avoid other distractions while driving.
- Watch carefully when backing up in school parking lots, driveways and neighborhoods.
- Be patient in drop-off and pickup lines and follow school traffic patterns.
- Look for children on bikes and scooters and give them plenty of space.
👨👩👧 Safety Tips for Parents
- Teach children the safest route to school and practice it with them.
- Establish a designated pickup location and make sure your child knows where to go.
- Teach children to look left, right and left again before crossing the street.
- Make sure younger children know their full name, address and a parent’s phone number.
- Remind children never to get into a vehicle with someone they don’t know without your permission.
- Talk about bus safety, including staying seated, keeping aisles clear and following the driver’s instructions.
- Make sure backpacks fit properly and aren’t so heavy that they affect balance or posture.
- Review emergency contacts and procedures before the school year begins.
🎒 Safety Tips for Students
- Use sidewalks and crosswalks whenever possible.
- Stop and look both ways before crossing a street and don’t assume drivers see you.
- Put phones and headphones away when crossing streets so you can see and hear traffic.
- Walk, don’t run, when getting on or off a school bus.
- Stay at least several feet away from the road while waiting for the bus.
- Always follow crossing guards’ instructions.
- Wear a helmet when riding a bike, scooter or skateboard.
- Use bike lanes or designated paths when available.
- Stay with friends or a trusted adult when walking to and from school.
- Tell a parent, teacher or trusted adult if something feels unsafe.