Pedestrian Safety
When you walk anywhere, it' very important to be careful of vehicle traffic. Getting hit by a car, truck, or bus can result in very serious injuries or even death.
Of course, if you play it safe and smart, you don't have to worry. Anytime you're traveling on foot, be sure to observe the following rules:
*Before crossing the street: stop, look both ways, listen for traffic, wait until the street is clear and all traffic has stopped, make eye contact with drivers to be sure they see you.
*Cross only at street corners or crosswalks.
*Obey traffic signals, but still watch for traffic.
*Never run out into the street, even if you're chasing a ball.
Vehicle Passenger Safety
Cars and trucks are a great convenience. They're a great way to get around faster and protect you from the elements. But until you're old enough to have a driver's license, you'll remain a vehicle passenger.
The most important one is that you (and everyone in the vehicle) should wear a seatbelt at all times. Seatbelts save lives by keeping you in place if there is a crash. The other important rule for young passengers is that they should ride in the back seat only, until the age of 12.
Lost
If you find that you're lost, don't panic. If you're outside, just go to the nearest store or gas station and ask to use the phone, then call home. Or if you see a police car, signal it to stop.
In the event the weather is really bad, go to the nearest house and ask them to phone your home. Stay outside or just inside the door while they phone. Of course if you take the same route to and from school everyday, chances are you won't find yourself in this situation.
Organized Sports
Sports are a very popular, fun and healthy activity. But as fun and healthy as sports can be, related injuries account for about 1 in 5 emergency room visits among young people in North America. To help prevent sports-related injuries, safety rules should be followed:
*Wear proper-fitting protective gear for the sport you are playing.
*Warm up and stretch before every activity.
*Don't wear jewelry when playing.
*If your hurt, don't continue to play; see a doctor.
