Our kids are back in school this week, and we all need to watch out for them. We can’t be reminded enough of the dangers students face going to and from school.

And, it’s not just the students who need to be reminded of safety.

Parents and all vehicle drivers need to remember to pay attention when driving in school areas, especially around 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily, the times when students are going to school and getting out of school.

Students are crossing streets or highways. School bus drivers watch out for their riders, and drivers need to heed the bus signs. When the school bus lights are flashing, slow down, stop and wait until the signals go out and students are safely on sidewalks or in their driveways.

More than 4,400 students attend Ottumwa’s public schools. Add on the students who attend Ottumwa Christian School and Seton Catholic School, and you have thousands of students in Ottumwa all needing our help in remaining safe. Plus, all the students throughout southern Iowa.

To help all of us during this month of the new 2008-09 school year, following are several tips from the Teachers’ Insurance Plan’s Safety Information Center.

Tips for walking or biking to school

• Walk with a friend.

• Pay attention to all traffic signals and crossing guards. Never cross the street against a stop light.

• Cross only at crosswalks, and never run into the street from between parked cars.

• Look left, right, and over your shoulder for traffic before crossing a street, and continue to check each direction.

• Make sure drivers see you by making eye contact with them.

• If riding a bicycle, scooter or skateboard to school, always wear a helmet and ride in the same direction as traffic. Walk your bike if crossing a street.

Tips for school bus riders

• Do not play in the street while waiting for the bus.