The beginning of a new school year is always exciting – even if you don’t particularly want to go back! But a school and its grounds can be potentially dangerous places, and injuries can happen. We want your kids to be safe and sound this year, so we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips for you to share with your kids, to help them avoid injuries while on school grounds:
- Stop running. We know it’s hard not to run, especially if you’re late – but slowing down is a smart move. You’re less likely to trip or crash into another person. If you have a lot of pent-up energy, use it in the school’s gym or on the open fields.
- Keep hydrated. Tennessee is pretty hot even in the fall. Make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and speak to the nurse if you feel dizzy or sick to your stomach. Dehydration is serious, and it can have serious effects. Avoid drinking soda, too – it’ll just dehydrate you more.
- Sit up straight. School chairs are meant to have all four legs on the ground. If you lean back, you risk hitting your head on the floor or another desk, which can lead to a concussion or brain injury.
- Tuck your book bag in. bags that hang into the walkways are an accident waiting to happen. You could cause someone to trip, or get your own chair and legs caught up in the straps. Store your bag out of the way of the aisles.
- Wear your safety gear. If you’re in a class with sharp objects or poisonous liquids, make sure you keep your protective goggles on.
- Stay in your seat on the bus. School bus wrecks have been on the rise in Tennessee and across the country. Stay in your seat, and don’t hang anything out the window. When you exit the bus, cross in the front so the driver can see you.
- Use crosswalks. Pedestrians can be seriously injured by drivers who are speeding or distracted. Cross at the crosswalks to increase you visibility, and look both ways before crossing.
- Don’t be a bystander. If you see someone being hurt in some way, tell a teacher. What seems like a harmless push could turn into a much more devastating incident if it progresses; tell an adult what you’ve witnessed.
We know that your kids will probably worry more about homework and tests and who they’ll sit with at lunch, but their personal safety should be at the top of their priority list.
If your child has been injured at school, please contact our office and talk with one of our attorneys to see if our office can fight for you.
