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Portland, OR – As summer vacations come to an end, students across the country are readying themselves for the start of a new school year. With all of the excitement this time brings, safety may not be the first subject that springs to mind. The American Red Cross encourages parents to take time to talk with their children about safety before school starts.

Tips for School Bus Riders

Line up facing the bus, not along side it.
Do not play in the street while waiting for the bus.
Carry all loose belongings in a bag or backpack.
Never reach under the school bus to get anything that has rolled or fallen beneath it. The bus driver may be sitting too high up to see you.
After getting off the bus, move immediately onto the sidewalk and out of traffic. If there is no sidewalk, try to stay as far to the side of the road as possible.
Wait for a signal from the bus driver before crossing the street. Walk at least 10 steps away from the front of the bus so the driver can see you.
Never cross the street or play behind the school bus.

Tips for Pedestrians or Bike Riders

Never walk alone—always travel with a buddy.
Pay attention to all traffic signals and crossing guards along the way. Never cross the street against a stop light.
Always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
Avoid ill-fitting clothing that could get caught in spokes or pedals or restrict movents, and wear reflective colors and material to be more visible to street traffic.
Walk your bicycle across all intersections.

Tips for Car Drivers and Passengers

Everyone in the car should wear a seatbelt, as they lower the risk of injury in the event of a crash by 45 percent.
Make sure babies and young children are in safety seats at all times, and that safety seats have been properly installed.
Read your car's manual for safety precautions specifically relate to the car and its airbags.
Remind teenagers to take extra precautions if they are driving to school or riding with another teenage driver.

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American Red Cross, Oregon Trail volunteers respond to house fires every 32 hours on average.
To assist the Red Cross in providing disaster relief, please call (503) 528-5634.
To prepare yourself and your family for fire or other disasters, go to www.redcross-pdx.org