(From the Findlay Police Department)
Back to School Means Back to Safety: Reminders for Pedestrians, Cyclists, and Drivers
As the school year begins on August 14th for Findlay City Schools, we’ll be seeing an increase in foot and bicycle traffic—especially near schools, bus stops, and neighborhood streets. It’s a critical time to focus on pedestrian and bicycle safety to help ensure all students get to and from school safely.
Here are some pedestrian safety tips for students and family:
-Always use sidewalks when available. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far from vehicles as possible.
-Cross at crosswalks or intersections, never between parked cars.
-Avoid distractions like cell phones and earbuds when walking near traffic.
-Make eye contact with drivers before crossing to ensure they see you.
Bicycle Safety Tips for Students:
-Wear a properly-fitted helmet—it can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85%.
-Ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic or use a sidewalk if available.
-Obey all traffic signs and signals.
-Use designated bicycle lanes when available.
-Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
-Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in early morning or evening hours.
What Drivers Need to Know:
-Slow down in school zones (20 mph speed restrictions) and residential areas.
-Pay attention for “No Turn on Red Signs” during school hours.
-Stop for school buses when red lights are flashing—it’s the law in all 50 states.
-Be extra cautious at intersections and crosswalks. Always yield to pedestrians.
-Avoid distractions behind the wheel, including phones and in-vehicle technology.
Remember: Children can be unpredictable—expect the unexpected.
Community Responsibility
With more children walking or biking to school, safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, student, or driver, staying alert and following the rules of the road can prevent accidents and save lives.
Please discuss these recommendations as a family prior to the start of classes.
As the school year begins, let’s work together to keep our roads safe for everyone—especially our youngest and most vulnerable road users.
For more information about bicycle and pedestrian safety, visit: www.nhtsa.gov or www.walkbiketoschool.org
WFIN – According to the Findlay City Schools website, for the 2025-26 school year, “transportation will be furnished for all elementary pupils and middle school pupils who live more than TWO MILES from the school they are required to attend. Transportation will not be furnished for high school students.”
Get more back-to-school information from Findlay City Schools by clicking here.
