Summer has come to an end and even though the weather is still warm, it’s impossible to miss the changes of the season. Kids are going back to school, storm and hurricane season is underway, and the colder weather will soon be here. It’s important to remember some critical safety tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe from unexpected injuries at this time of year. 

1. Watch out for school buses.  Be extra aware of school bus traffic throughout neighborhoods and all the streets around town. Pay attention to where school buses are stopping and make sure you know the New Jersey traffic laws pertaining to school buses. According to NJ.gov, drivers must stop their vehicle not less than 25 feet from a stopped school bus with flashing red lights when traveling on the same side of the roadway. Drivers may pass a stopped school bus with flashing red lights at a speed not more than 10 mph when traveling on the opposite side of a divided highway.
2. Have an emergency prep kit ready in case of storms. Your kit should contain items such as batteries, flashlights, a battery-powered radio, first aid items, and three days of non-perishable food and water for people (and pets).

3. Many people enjoy fire pits in their yard when the weather cools. Be sure to follow safety tips around the fire pit. Do not let children or pets run or play near the fire pit. Never use any kind of flammable fluid to ignite the fire. Make sure to have a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby when using the fire pit.

4. Clear away fallen leaves. Wet leaves are a common safety hazard and can easily cause slip and fall injuries, especially on stairs, sidewalks, driveways, and other outdoor walkways. Avoid burning leaves to dispose of them, as this practice can be a fire and safety hazard.
5. Autumn is a good time of year to check the trees in your yard. Low hanging branches, dead or dying trees, and fallen tree limbs can cause damage to your property in a storm, hurricane, or blizzard. Be sure to safely remove any tree branches or other debris before storm season arrives.