Findlay police give tips on back-to-school safety

FINDLAY — With the first day of classes for Findlay City Schools scheduled for Thursday, the Findlay Police Department is reminding the community to be aware of increased foot and bicycle traffic before and after school. Officers urge pedestrians, cyclists and drivers to take extra precaution this academic year so students can get to and from school safely, especially near bus stops, schools and neighborhood streets. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than one in five children under age 15 killed in traffic crashes were pedestrians. In 2022, over 1,000 bicyclists lost their lives, with thousands more injured, many during the busy morning and afternoon travel times. The FPD offers the following safety reminders: For pedestrians: • Use sidewalks when possible, if none are available, walk facing traffic and stay as far away from vehicles as possible • Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, never between parked cars • Avoid distractions such as phones and earbuds when walking in traffic • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing to ensure you are seen For cyclists: • Always wear a properly fitted helmet, can reduce head injuries by up to 85% • Ride on the right side of the road in the same direction as traffic, or use sidewalks if permitted • Obey all traffic signs and signals • Use bike lanes when available • Signal turns and stops with hand gestures • Wear bright and reflective clothing, especially in the morning and evening hours For drivers: • Slow down in school zones (20 mph) and residential areas • Follow "No Turn on Red" during school hours • Stop for school buses when red lights are flashing • Be extra cautious at intersections and crosswalks, yielding to pedestrians • Avoid distractions, including cell phones and other technology The police department stressed that safety is a shared community responsibility. Families are encouraged to discuss these tips together before the start of school on Thursday. For more information about bicycle and pedestrian safety, visit www.nhtsa.gov and www.walkbiketoschool.org.