School’s Out: 3 Tips for Child and Pedestrian Safety

June usually means it is officially summertime. More people are outside and enjoying the warmth of the sun. It means that children are most likely to play outdoors, too.

That’s why it is important for you and your children to take extra precaution while everyone is outside. There are still careless drivers on the road, so being aware of pedestrian safety tips is important not only during the summer, but year-round.

Here are some helpful tips from Safekids.org for you and your child to be aware and safe.

Walking while distracted by a phone or headphones

If your child is playing loud music in their ears or looking down at their phone while crossing the street, this could mean bad news if a vehicle is approaching toward them at the same time. Having a phone out or listening to music lowers your sense of awareness drastically. Turn the music off or hold the conversation while crossing the street to make sure your child is properly keeping an eye (and ear) out for cars.

Don’t wear dark clothes

If you are walking at night, make sure to wear bright and/or neon clothing so other people and vehicles can easily see you.

Continue looking, and stay vigilant

One good tip is to look both ways before crossing the street, and to keep looking as you are crossing.

Stay vigilant for vehicles backing out. It is difficult for a driver to see directly behind them as they are backing their vehicle out, so keep aware for these signs and steer clear.

Drunk Driving Increases During the Summer

Unfortunately, there’s a higher percentage of people driving while impaired since there are more drivers overall on the road during the summer months. Holidays like Memorial Day and 4^th of July also see an additional increase in drunken driving. If you are drinking at a holiday party or friend’s house, stop and think. Get a taxi, Uber or Lyft, or ask a friend who is sober for a ride.

Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock Devices are one of the most effective tools against drunk driving. The SSI-20/30™ and SSI-20/20™ both have fuel cell technology, which is the most accurate method of testing someone’s breath alcohol to date.

Do you need an Interlock Device? Call Smart Start today at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form.