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A School's Guide to Bicycle, Bus, and Playground Safety

By Nic Moss

Public Playground Safety Checklist

  • Ensure that playgrounds have a proper safety surface, such as rubber mats or at least 12 inches of wood chips, mulch, sand, or pea gravel under and around equipment.
  • Verify that safety surfacing stretches a minimum of 6 feet from all sides of play equipment, and for swings, make sure that it extends forward and backward by twice the height of the swing set's bar.
  • Confirm that elevated platforms and ramps have sturdy guardrails to protect kids from falling.
  • Check that play structures taller than 30 inches are spaced at least 9 feet apart to avoid overcrowding.
  • Inspect for hazardous hardware, such as exposed bolt ends or open S-hooks that might snag clothing or hurt children.
  • Regularly check for any signs of wear and tear on playground equipment and surface materials to maintain safe conditions.
  • Make sure that there are no small gaps in railings or between ladder rungs that could trap a child; openings should measure either less than 3.5 inches or more than 9 inches.
  • Actively supervise children while they're playing to prevent injuries and ensure safe use of the playground.

School Bus Safety

Stopping for School Buses

When you're driving, keep an eye out for school buses, and watch their lights carefully. If they have flashing yellow lights, they're about to stop, and flashing red lights signal that they are stopped and that you must stop, too. If you're in the oncoming lane, stop at least 10 feet back, so that children have plenty of room to cross the road in front of the bus. Never pass a school bus with its lights flashing.

Bus Stop Safety

Children should arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes early and wait at least 10 feet back from the road. If they need to cross the road, they should always look at the driver, wait for the driver to signal them to cross, and then cross in front of the bus; never cross behind it. When getting on or off the bus, they should wait for the bus to stop completely and then use the handrails for safety.

Safe School Buses

School buses are uniquely designed with safety in mind, incorporating features like cross-view mirrors, flashing red lights, and stop-sign arms. Unlike passenger cars, large school buses distribute crash forces differently, meaning that passengers experience less impact during collisions. Instead of relying on seat belts, large buses use a safety system called compartmentalization, where closely spaced, energy-absorbing seats protect children without the need for restraints.

Bicycle Safety

Helmets

Before any bike ride, the first step should be putting on a helmet. But simply wearing one isn't enough; you need to make sure that it fits correctly to get the protection you need. Since helmet sizes differ between brands, it's essential to follow proper fitting steps to get a good fit.

Avoiding Crashes

Crashes fall into two categories: the common (falls) and the more dangerous (collisions with cars). Whether it's a minor fall or a serious incident, prevention is key. Note that bicycle fatalities peak between June and September, with the majority happening in urban settings.

Preparation Before Heading Out

  • Choose a bike that fits you properly to maintain control.
  • Ensure that your bike is in working order, especially the brakes.
  • Wear safety gear, like bright or reflective clothing, and a helmet, and use lights when necessary.
  • Tie up laces and tuck in pants to avoid getting caught in the chain.
  • Plan your route, prioritizing bike lanes, paths, or roads with less traffic for a safer ride.

Ride Defensively

  • When riding, stay focused on both the road and surrounding traffic.
  • Always ride with the flow of traffic.
  • Follow all traffic signs, signals, and road markings, just like any vehicle.
  • Assume that drivers don't see you, and stay alert for hazards like potholes, toys, or train tracks.
  • Avoid distractions like texting or listening to music.

Be Predictable

When your moves are easy to predict, drivers around you will know what you're going to do and be able to avoid you. Always ride in the correct lane, signal when changing lanes or turning, and avoid sudden movements.

Sidewalk Safety

While it's safer to ride on the road, if you must use the sidewalk:

  • Check local laws to ensure that sidewalk riding is permitted.
  • Be mindful of pedestrians, and announce yourself when passing.
  • Ride in the same direction as motorized traffic so that motorists will see you more easily at intersections.
  • Slow down at crosswalks and driveways, checking for cars before proceeding.

Improve Your Biking Skills

Getting better at riding a bike takes practice. Start by biking in a controlled environment, such as a park or empty parking lot, where you can build your confidence. Taking a bike safety class through a school, bike shop, or community group is also a great way to learn the rules of the road and how to communicate with other drivers and pedestrians.

Sharing the Road: What Drivers Should Know

When you're driving and encounter someone on a bike, never underestimate their speed, especially at intersections. Give them plenty of room, and avoid passing them too closely. You should also drive responsibly as you usually would: Obey the speed limit, adjust your driving to suit the road conditions, and always keep an eye out for potential hazards, including cyclists.

General School Safety

Learn About the Author

Moss Photo

Nicolas Moss

A CPSI-certified playground inspector, Nic has been with AAA State of Play for over three years. Nic has a keen interest in playground design, construction, and installation, and he uses this passion to drive his work to new heights. In his free time, Nic enjoys hanging out with friends and living life to its fullest.

Nic on linkedin