Tips for Keeping Kids Safe:Always assume children could be present, and carefully check the street, driveway, and the area around your vehicle before backing out. Another good idea is to walk around and behind your vehicle prior to moving it.
- When backing up, always know where all children are and have them stay in your full view and away from your vehicle.
- Always look behind as you back out S-L-O-W-L-Y with your windows rolled down to listen for children who may have dashed behind your vehicle suddenly- and be prepared to stop!
- Use extreme care whenever you back up. If you’re driving an SUV or truck, remember that the blind spot behind your vehicle can be especially large.
- Never leave children alone in or around cars, not even for one minute.
- Trim landscaping around driveways to remove any visual obstructions.
- Make sure all children passengers have left the car after it is parked.
- Keep vehicles locked at all times, even in the garage or driveway and always set the parking brake.
- Keys and/or remote openers should never be left within reach of children.
- Hold your child’s hand firmly while walking from a car into a building.
- Never let your child walk or run ahead of you to anyplace where cars are.
- Make your driveway a toy-free zone. Never allow any toys, bikes, chalks or any type of equipment to remain on the driveway.
- Teach children not to play in, under, or around vehicles- ever.
- Avoid making your driveway a ‘playground.’ If you do allow children in this area, make sure that it’s only when there are no vehicles present.
- Teach your children that parked vehicles might move.
This list may seem long, but it is not exhaustive. Here at Berglund & Johnson we assist folks daily in dealing with personal injuries and other traumatic events. Our years of experience have taught us the value of being prepared. That is why we at Berglund & Johnson will continue to provide any information that could be useful to our clients and friends for their safety.