School safety is in session

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Lynsie Nichols
  • 374 Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  As summer draws to an end and the school year here begins, the need for safety awareness and looking out for children increases.

"Personnel who live in base housing or travel through it on their way to work, are reminded to stay vigilant during the hours of 7:45 to 8:10 a.m. and 2:10 to 2:30 p.m. when school traffic is at its busiest time," said Milton Colon, transportation specialist.

Things to look out for in the mornings and afternoons include school bus stops and children crossing the streets or walking on the sidewalks.

"Some children may misstep and fall off the sidewalk, or they may try to crowd onto the sidewalk causing some individuals to step off into the streets," said Tonya Laliberte, assistant principal at Joan K. Mendel Elementary School.

Vigilance and safety consciousness shouldn't stop with adults, however. Children can also do their part to act safely and make it easier for drivers to notice them.

"Children can walk in pairs or groups to their destination," said Ms. Laliberte. "They should always let a parent or an adult know where they are going."

She added that communication between children and adults helps both parties know which modes of transportation will be used and helps the children understand what is expected of them during arrival and departure from school.

Safety at school is also important. Children should use good judgment while playing on the playgrounds and be aware of their surroundings.

"Children must follow the playground safety rules we have established," she said. "If a child would like to use the playground after school hours, they must be supervised by an adult."

For children who would like to participate in a safety program aimed towards helping younger schoolmates, Joan K. Mendel Elementary School hosts a student safety patrol. The program allows fifth grade students the opportunity to serve on the patrol and assist younger students with crossing the street safely.

You don't have to be a student or the parent of a student to help out; the school is always looking for volunteers to participate in programs and to speak to classes about safety.

For more information on volunteering or to learn about the safety patrol, contact Joan K. Mendel Elementary School at 225-5504.