Back-To-School In Oklahoma What Parents Need To Know Before The First Bell

Back-To-School In Oklahoma What Parents Need To Know Before The First Bell

As students across the state prepare to head back to class, parents have more to think about than shopping for backpacks and notebooks. From school zone safety to dangerous summer heat, a few simple preparations can help students start the new school year safely.

With many Oklahoma schools returning in early August, state officials encourage drivers, parents and students to take extra precautions as traffic increases around campuses and children return to sidewalks, bus stops and crosswalks.

Back-To-School In Oklahoma Means School Zone Safety Returns

School zones will soon be active again, and drivers should begin watching for flashing lights, crossing guards and children walking or riding bicycles near campuses.

According to the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, motorists should slow down immediately when entering posted school zones, eliminate distractions and remain alert for children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway.

Drivers are also reminded that Oklahoma law requires vehicles traveling in both directions to stop for a school bus displaying its red flashing lights and extended stop arm unless the roadway is divided by a physical median. Failing to stop for a school bus not only places children at risk but can also result in significant fines and penalties.

Parents are encouraged to review safe walking routes with their children and remind them to use designated crosswalks whenever possible.

Oklahoma Heat Can Create Hidden Risks For Students

The first weeks of school often coincide with some of the hottest weather of the year in Oklahoma. With temperatures frequently reaching the upper 90s and heat index values climbing above 100 degrees, students walking to school, waiting at bus stops or participating in outdoor activities can quickly become overheated.

According to the National Weather Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children are more susceptible to heat-related illness because their bodies do not regulate temperature as efficiently as adults.

Parents can help reduce the risk by encouraging children to drink water before leaving home, dress in lightweight, light-colored clothing and carry a refillable water bottle whenever allowed by their school. Coaches, teachers and parents should also watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, excessive sweating, headache, nausea and fatigue.

Anyone showing signs of heat stroke—including confusion, unconsciousness or a body temperature above 104 degrees—should receive immediate medical attention by calling 911.

A Simple Checklist Can Help Families Prepare

Beyond purchasing school supplies, parents should take a few minutes to review important health and safety information before the first day of class.

Make sure emergency contact information is current, confirm who is authorized to pick up your child from school, review any medication or allergy plans with school staff and make certain immunizations are up to date if required for enrollment.

Families should also establish after-school transportation plans, remind children never to accept rides from strangers and discuss what to do if they miss the bus or become separated from friends.

While the excitement of a new school year often centers on classrooms and supplies, a little preparation before the first bell can help students stay safe, healthy and ready to learn throughout the school year.

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