This Is How Texas Parents Can Keep Kids Safe This School Year

As school gets underway across Texas next week, Sergeant Marc Couch with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminded me on-air that it's time for all of us to slow down and pay attention. Whether kids are walking, riding bikes, or waiting at the bus stop, our neighborhoods are about to get busy, and safety is everyone’s responsibility.

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Driving Near School Zones? Here’s What You Must Remember:
Texas DPS is urging all drivers to:

• Slow down and stay alert in school zones and neighborhoods.
• Stop for school buses when red lights are flashing—it's the law.
• Watch for children on bikes or stepping into the street.
• Avoid blocking crosswalks, and always follow school crossing guards.
• Obey speed limits, and never text and drive.

If you're caught illegally passing a stopped school bus, you could face a $1,250 fine or even a license suspension. Let’s not go there.

Talk to Your Kids About Safety
Parents, it’s also a great time to have a quick chat with your kids about:

• Emergency drills (fire, tornado, lockdowns)
• Knowing which trusted adults to turn to
• Not talking to or taking rides from strangers

Keep an up-to-date photo of your child on your phone in case of emergencies, and make sure the school has your most current contact info.

Read More: Abilene Police Are Watching: Drive Nice or Pay the Price

Use These Free Safety Tools
Sergeant Couch also recommends:

• iWatchTexas: Report suspicious activity confidentially via the app or call 844-643-2251.
• Texas School Safety Center: A hub for resources, safety programs, and online training.
• Active Shooter Alert System: Stay informed in real-time via broadcast and highway signs.

Let’s make this school year safe for every student in Texas. Take a deep breath, stay patient in school zones, and let’s all do our part to protect the future of Texas.