Back to School: Keeping Kids Safe and What to Do If They’re Injured

Going back to school brings up important safety considerations for kids. Here are some tips to keep them safe, and what to do if they’re injured.

Safety Tips for Kids as They Head Back to School

• Travel Safety—Teach kids safe routes to school, avoiding, when possible, isolated areas or places with heavy traffic. Be sure they understand traffic rules, including traffic signals, crosswalks, and how to safely navigate intersections. Encourage kids to utilize the buddy system, walking to school with friends or siblings, as there’s safety in numbers. In low light situations, have your child wear bright or reflective clothing to make it easier for drivers to see them.
• Backpack Safety—Ensure backpacks are not too heavy (no more than 10-20% of the child’s body weight), and are worn with both straps to distribute the weight evenly.
• Bullying Awareness—Educate kids about bullying, and encourage open communication if they experience or witness bullying. Discuss different forms of bullying, such as physical (hitting, pushing), verbal (name calling, teasing), and social (excluding, spreading rumors). Teach empathy, and encourage your child to support classmates who are being bullied by being a friend and reporting bullying behavior.
• Stranger Danger—Teach kids about stranger danger. Help them understand that not all strangers are dangerous, but they should be cautious around strangers they encounter in certain situations, like on their way to school, or in public places. Emphasize that they can trust certain adults, such as parents, teachers, police officers, and other caregivers. Help them to be aware of their surroundings and to trust their instincts if they feel uncomfortable or scared around someone. Identify safe places in your neighborhood, and on the way to school, where they can go if they feel threatened or if they need help.
• Internet Safety—Explaining internet safety to kids is crucial in today’s digital age. Explain to your child that stranger danger rules also apply to online behavior. Discuss safe internet practices, including never sharing personal information (full name, address, phone number, school name) online, and never, ever agreeing to meet someone they’ve only met online. Help your child identify safe websites and apps that are age-appropriate and reputable.
• Hygiene and Health—Emphasize handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick to prevent the spread of illnesses.

What To Do If They’re Injured

• Minor Injuries (Scrapes, Cuts)—Clean the wound with soap and water, apply an antiseptic cream and cover with a sterile bandage. Monitor for signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling).
• Head Injuries—If your child hits their head and shows symptoms like confusion, loss of consciousness, or vomiting, seek medical attention immediately. Keep them still and calm until medical help arrives.
• Broken Bones or Severe Injuries—Call 911 if the injury is serious, or if you suspect a broken bone. Keep the injured area still and stable until medical help arrives.
• Allergic Reactions—If your child has severe allergies (such as to food, insects), ensure they have an EpiPen or other prescribed medication with them at all times. Educate teachers and other school staff about your child’s allergies, and the accompanying emergency procedures.
• Communication with School—Inform the school about any pre-existing medical conditions or allergies your child may have. Be sure your child’s emergency contact information is up to date.
• Follow-Up—After any injury, monitor your child’s condition closely. Follow all medical advice and attend any follow-up appointments recommended by healthcare providers.

By staying informed and proactive, you can help ensure a safe and healthy school experience for your child.

What To Do If Your Child Is Injured Due to the Fault or Negligence of Another Party

If your child is injured on the way to school, or in school, due to someone else’s negligence or fault, it’s important to take these steps to ensure their safety and to protect their legal rights.

• Assess the Situation—First, assess the extent of your child’s injuries, and ensure your child receives immediate medical attention if needed. In fact, even if the injury seems minor, have your child examined by a healthcare professional to ensure there are no underlying issues.
• Document the Incident—Take note of the details surrounding the incident, including the location, time of day, what caused the injury (traffic accident, slip and fall, etc.). Obtain contact information from any witnesses who saw what happened…their statements may be crucial if legal action is pursued later.
• Report to Authorities—Depending on the severity of the injury, contact 911 or local police to report the incident. They can create an official report, which may be necessary for insurance claims or legal proceedings.
• Notify the School—If the incident does not occur on school grounds, inform the school about the incident as soon as possible. They may have procedures in place for handling accidents involving students, and can provide support or assistance.
• Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney—If your child’s injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as a reckless driver or unsafe premises, consider consulting with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in such cases. They can provide guidance on your legal options, and help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
  

Do everything you can to keep your child safe as the school year starts, but if they’re involved in a personal injury incident, contact the attorneys at LaSalvia Law. We will fight to win you the compensation you deserve.