Read the scenarios. Identify the threats related to different routes coming and going to your program. Then brainstorm possible solutions.

Scenario #1

1. Alyssa is 9 years old and comes from a school that is five blocks away. You are responsible for picking the children up from Alyssa’s school and walking with them to your program. Alyssa often walks slowly and separates herself from the group. You must cross three roads to get to your location. It is challenging to keep all of the children together. Identify safety threats and possible solutions:
   Threats:

   • Crossing roads
   • Falling behind
   • Difficulty supervising children

   Possible Solutions:

   • Crossing roads: This can be a major threat for children. Cars can be traveling at high speeds. This means there is less time for them to see, react, and stop. It is important to teach children to look both ways, cross at a corner, and use crosswalks. It is a good idea to teach the children to wait for an adult before crossing the street.
   • Falling behind: Having a buddy to walk with is much safer than walking alone. Pair Alyssa up with a walking partner or walking group. Make sure the children know to stick together and know what to do if one person is absent.
   • Supervising children: You should be able to see all children while en route, and all children should be able to hear you and respond to emergency directions. If you do not think one person can keep children safe on the road, talk to your supervisor. If possible, send two adults to pick the children up: one can stay near the front of the group and one can stay near the rear.

    

Scenario #2

2. Jordan’s father, Brian, is running late to work. When he arrives to drop Jordan off at your school-age program, he ignores your program’s drop-off procedures. You hear his tires squeal as he pulls into the drop-off lane. Rather than entering the one-way drive as he should and parking the car in a space, he pulls into the exit. He leaves the engine running as he rushes Jordan up the sidewalk. While Brian’s car is idling in the exit, no other families can leave. A line of traffic develops. Identify safety threats and possible solutions:
   Threats:

   • Fast-moving vehicles
   • Vehicles moving the wrong way
   • Idling vehicle
   • Traffic build-up

   Possible Solutions:

   • Fast-moving vehicles: Fast or impatient driving can be deadly in a pick-up or drop-off zone. Cars stop, start, and pull out of spaces unpredictably in many cases. Drivers must be cautious and consider the safety of all children. You or your manager must talk to Brian immediately about his behavior; he has put children at serious risk. Talk to your manager about the options your program has. Examples include posting signs reminding drivers to slow down, stationing a staff member in the parking lot, or asking local police or security officers to monitor speed.
   • Driving the Wrong Direction: This is a serious traffic violation that puts all children at risk. Report this problem to management; they must ensure that appropriate signage is in place to let drivers know the street is one-way. Your manager may also look into requesting additional local police or security officer patrol during high traffic times. In the short term, the manager should talk to Brian about driving safely in the school zone. His behavior put many children at risk.
   • Idling Vehicle: Leaving an empty car running is very unsafe. It is possible that a child could enter the car. Report this issue to your manager immediately. If the problem continues or spreads, continue educating parents about the dangers through your program newsletter, website, or family events.
   • Traffic Build-Up: Heavy traffic increases the likelihood of accidents. It is harder to see cars stopping, doors opening, or children crossing. A staff member should be assigned to the drop-off area to make sure traffic flows smoothly. Make sure families are provided with drop-off and pick-up instructions. Your program may also include maps instructing parents where to park.

    

Scenario #3

3. Amy, Carla and Justin all live near each other and bring their bikes to your program. Their parents pick them up at roughly the same time and allow the children to ride their bikes home together. Today you notice the children begin peddling away without putting on their helmets. They are riding three across on the street near your building. Before they turn the corner, you see Carla try to jump a curb and show off other bike “tricks.” Identify safety threats and possible solutions:
   Threats:

   • Not wearing helmets
   • Not obeying traffic laws
   • Taking risks (jumping curbs)

   Possible Solutions:

   • Not Wearing Helmets: Helmets are critical tools for preventing head injuries. Make sure children wear helmets every time they ride. It is good practice to make sure children put on their helmets before they start to ride. Although parents have signed them out, it is still a good idea to encourage and expect helmet use.
   • Not Obeying Traffic Laws: The children are riding three across on the street. They should be riding single file and leaving room for traffic. If the children are still within sight of your program, it is a good idea to remind them right away to ride safely. Plan activities about bicycle and traffic safety.
   • Taking Risks: Jumping curbs is especially dangerous without helmets. Talk to the children about where and when it is OK to do tricks on their bikes. For example, there might be a bike park in your area or a skate park that allows bicycles. Make sure they understand the importance of safety gear like helmets and pads.