Parents must do some homework to keep their kids healthy and safe. Don’t let safety fall by the wayside.

Walk and ride to school safely. Obey traffic lights and signals, walk only in crosswalks and listen to the crossing guard. If your children ride a bike to school be sure they wear a helmet. If possible, always walk your child to the bus stop and pick them up as well.

Keep backpacks light, a child’s backpack should only be 5 to 10 percent of his or her body weight, according to the American Chiropractic Association.

A backpack with wheels is easy to maneuver and reduces back stress. If your child does choose to wear a backpack, utilize both straps. Slinging the backpack over one shoulder may cause spinal curvature.

School Bus Safety

Be on time.

Never run to or from the bus.

Stand back from the curb.

Don’t push or shove.

Wait for the driver’s signal before crossing.

Always cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus.

Never crawl under a school bus.

Stay in your seat.

Don’t yell or shout.

Always obey the driver.

Teen Drivers

Get a good night’s sleep.

Go to bed early, wake up early and be refreshed.

Leave five or 10 minutes early, so you will not need to speed.

Obey all traffic laws.

Never pass vehicles on solid lines and do not try to drive around them on the shoulder of the road.

Pedestrians always have the right of way.

Never try to beat other cars or trains.

Do not talk or text with cell phone.

Do not wear any type of ear phones.