Auto Resources: Traffic Safety for Kids
Your parents have probably already told you a few traffic safety tips. How many do you remember? It is very important to always be aware of traffic safety rules when you are out and about. Think about what might happen if there was an accident because you ignored those rules. You might be injured very seriously, or even killed. Apart from that, other people on the street, or other drivers might also be hurt. By following safe traffic rules, you can help to keep everyone around you safe! Check out each section below for more information and useful resources on traffic safety.
On the Streets
Before crossing a street, always pay attention to the traffic signals and signs. A red light means that cars in that direction have to stop. The flashing pedestrian signs will tell you whether it is safe to cross or not. If the hand sign is flashing, do not cross, even if the street is empty. Always look both ways, whether the street goes both ways or one way. At night, only use brightly lit streets in main, public areas instead of dark shortcuts.
- Know What the Shapes of Traffic Signs Mean
- A Traffic Sign Recognition Hunt
- What Do These Signs Mean?
- Crossing the Street Coloring Page (PDF)
- Learn How to Cross the Road Safely
- Traffic Safety Holding Hands Activity Sheet (PDF)
- Remember to Stop, Look, and Listen!
- A Coloring Book About Traffic Safety (PDF)
- Street Safety for Kids
- Sesame Workshop: Road Safety
- Izzy’s Road Safety Games
- Road Safety Resources
When you head out to ride your bike, there are a few things to check first. Fasten your helmet, and make sure to wear protective pads on your hands, elbows and knees. These items will help to minimize any injuries in case you fall. If you are biking after dark, wear clothing with reflective tape, and make sure that the bike’s headlight and bell work properly. Stick to the sidewalks or approved bicycle paths, and ask an adult to go with you. Always follow the traffic regulations. For example, if the light is red, or the flashing hand is indicated, don’t try to sneak past. You could end up getting hurt! The same rules also apply to other wheeled sports, such as rollerblading or skateboarding.
- Bike Safety Tips for Kids
- A Kids’ Guide to Bike Safety
- Activity Package on Wheeled Sports (PDF)
- Wear Your Bike Helmet Correctly
- Know the Bike Hand Signals
- Bike Helmet Coloring Page
At the railroad crossing, the first thing to look for is whether the crossing gates are open or closed. If they are closed, wait until the train passes and they open again. Before crossing, check both ways to make sure that the path is completely clear. Be careful when crossing railroad tracks. If you are biking, get off your bike and wheel it across. Never play near railway tracks. Instead, stay far away from them to be safe.
- Tips for Crossing the Railroad Safely
- General Rail Safety for Kids
- Be Safe at the Train Station
- Railway Safety Rules
- Try the Railroad Safety Quiz
- Railway Activity and Coloring Sheets
- How to Stay Safe Near Railroad Crossings
In the Car
Even though you are not old enough to drive a car, you can still help to maintain a safe environment in many ways. As soon as you get into the car, put on your seatbelt. If there is an accident, the seatbelt can keep you safe. Kids should always ride in the backseat. Help the adult driver to stay focused on the road by not horsing around, screaming, or throwing things.
If you are taking a bus, make sure to wait at the bus stop or inside the bus shelter until the bus arrives. If you are unsure of where the bus is going, ask the bus driver before sitting down. When you get on or off a bus, always cross around the front of the bus. In this way, the driver can see you and make sure that you are safe. Check the street both ways first and then cross. At the subway station, stand far back from the edge, and hold your parent’s hand. Never go to the subway station without a trusted adult. When you board the subway, hold onto the handrails so that you don’t fall down.