Cross Streets Safely

What is a pedestrian?
A pedestrian is a walker; a person who walks somewhere; a person who crosses the street.

Are all students pedestrians?
Yes, even those who get a ride from parents or take the school bus. As soon as they get off the bus or out of a car, they are pedestrians, and at some point and time, we all cross streets going somewhere.

Should you always walk with someone older?
Yes. For children who are at least seven years and younger, they should always walk with someone older. (But older children are encouraged to walk in groups and with adults depending on their needs.)

What is the first thing you should do when you get to the corner and why?
STOP! Otherwise, you don’t give yourself a chance to look for cars and give the drivers a chance to see you.

What direction should you look for traffic?
You should look ALL WAYS. At a corner, look in all directions that cars could be coming from. For example, look Left-Right-Left, and over the shoulder.

When you look over your shoulder, you are checking for cars that may be doing what?
Turning.

What does “make eye contact with the driver” mean?
Looking at the driver’s eyes to make sure the driver sees you.

Suggested activities:

1. Demonstrate making eye contact by standing facing the class. Ask: Can you see my eyes? Can I see you? Turn, face the wall, and repeat questions.
2. Show children that their height can cause a visibility problem to them and the driver when crossing between parked cars. Have the child stand between two large objects, for example, a file cabinet. Ask: Can you see towards your right and left? Do you think the driver can see you if you can’t see the driver?
3. Find out from the Principal or Cadet Advisor if you have School Crossing Guards or safety cadets for your school. If so, find out if the children utilize the School Crossing Guard or safety cadets and if they know where the School Crossing Guard and/or safety cadets are located.
4. Discuss with the children if they feel they have pedestrian problems outside their school and if so, what can be done to correct these issues. For example, be better pedestrians by following safe pedestrian rules and crossing where the school crossing guards and safety cadets are located.