Mayor Michael Pantelides and Fire Chief David Stokes remind both the motorist and the pedestrian to look up and look for each other as children head back to school.
According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, during the years of 2013 through 2015, Annapolis reported 114 pedestrian related crashes, with 28 of those crashes occurring in a marked crosswalk. In 40 of the 114 crashes, the pedestrian, cyclist, or moped was at fault, not the motorist.
“It is important that both the motorist and the pedestrian take equal responsibility for safety on Annapolis streets and review some of the basic ‘back to school safety rules’ that will keep our residents safe,” Mayor Pantelides said.
Walking to and from School ?
· Before you step off the curb to cross the street, stop, look up from your phone or books, and look out for any vehicles in the roadway.
· Always walk on the sidewalk if one is available. If no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic.
· The safest place to cross is at a street corner or intersection.
· Walk, do not run.
· Never run out in the street between parked cars.
Riding Your Bike ?
· Make sure that your helmet fits correctly.
· Ride on the right side of the road in a single line in the same direction as other vehicles.
· Wear bright color clothing.
· At night, you should have a white light on the front of your bicycle and a red reflector on the back. You can also get lights and reflective materials to put on your shoes, helmet and clothing.
Riding the Bus ?
Boarding the School Bus
· When the bus arrives, stand at least three giant steps (6 feet) away from the curb.
· If you have to cross the street in front of the bus, walk on the sidewalk or along the side of the road until you are five giant steps (10 feet) ahead of the bus. Then you can cross the street.
· Be sure the bus driver can see you and you can see the bus driver.
· If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver before attempting to pick it up.
“Please take the time to review these safety tips with your family,” Fire Chief Stokes said. “Most importantly as we start the school year please remember to look up and pay attention to what’s in the roadway and look out for each other.”
If you have any questions regarding Back to School Safety, please contact the Annapolis Fire Department at 410-263-7975.