As students head back to class, Fort Bend Municipal Utility District 149 (FB MUD 149) asks every resident to help make the new school year a safe and successful one. Whether you drive to work, walk to school, ride a bike, or wait at the bus stop, a little extra awareness makes a big difference.
Safety Tips for Drivers
The first few weeks of school bring heavier traffic and new routines. Drivers can keep students safe by following these tips:
- Slow down in school zones and obey posted speed limits.
- Watch for children crossing streets, especially near schools, neighborhoods, and bus stops.
- Put away distractions and keep your eyes on the road.
- Stop for school buses as the law requires, and never pass a bus that has its stop arm out and its red lights flashing.
- Allow extra travel time in the morning and afternoon.
Safety Tips for Students and Families
Parents and caregivers can build safe habits with their children before the first day of school:
- Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available, and cross only at designated crosswalks.
- Look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
- Put phones and headphones away while walking or biking, and stay alert.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking or biking in low light.
- Always wear a properly fitted helmet when riding a scooter or skateboard.
- Talk with your child about stranger awareness and about following the planned route to and from school.
Safety Tips for Cyclists
Many students ride to school on two wheels. Families can make every trip safer by reviewing these habits together:
- Check that the bicycle fits your child, and inspect the brakes and tires regularly.
- Wear a properly fitted helmet on every ride, no matter how short the trip.
- Teach children to obey traffic signs, stay alert, ride in a straight, predictable line, and signal every turn by hand.
- Walk the bike across busy intersections instead of riding through them.