With all area schools back in session, it is easy to see a larger number of children on the streets and sidewalks after school.

As parents, we want our children to enjoy their years in school and return safely home each afternoon.

Whether your child is riding a bike, walking or taking a bus, there are a few simple safely rules you should discuss at the beginning of the school year.

4 Riding a bike or walking will give your child a chance to get some exercise during the day. But children face possible dangers walking or biking. Children between the ages of 5 and 9 have probably not developed the skills and experience to navigate traffic safely and judge speed and distance.

Practice safe pedestrian skills with your child and provide adult supervision to and from school if possible.

– Tell your child to mind all traffic signals and or the crossing guard.

– Never cross the street against a light, even if there is no traffic coming.

– Walk your bike through intersections.

– Ride or walk with a buddy.

– Wear reflective material to be more visible to street traffic.

Taking the bus is a safe mode of transportation. However, according to the National Safety Council, about 9,000 children are injured each year in incidents involving school buses. Surprisingly, these injuries occur as children enter and exit the busy.

Review these safety tips with your child.

– Have a safe place to wait for the bus that is away from traffic and the street.

– Stay away from the bus until it comes to a complete stop and the driver signals you to enter.

– When being dropped off, exit the bus and walk several giant steps away from the bus. Keep a safe distance between you and the bus. Also, remember that the bus driver can see you best when you are away from the bus.

– Use the handrail to enter and exit the bus.

– Stay away from the bus until the driver gives a signal that it is OK to approach.

– Be aware of the street traffic around you. Drivers are required to follow certain rules of the road concerning schools busses but not all do.

If you are driving in a school area or along bus routes, be sure to watch out for children on the streets and sidewalks. Slow down in school areas. Stop at all crosswalks and intersections when children are present.

Obey all laws regarding school buses. Whether you have a child in school or not, help make sure all school children arrive at school safely and return home safely.

Stuart Heflin is a Natchez-based insurance agent with State Farm Insurance. He can be reached by calling 601-442-9138.