10 Essential Safety Tips Every Crossing Guard Should Know

School Crossing Guards (SCG) play a crucial role in the safety of children and adults throughout the school year. Their presence not only helps keep children safe in traffic, but they can also provide a sense of security for the community. The job can be rewarding but it also comes with challenges. Poor weather conditions, unexpected traffic, construction, and at times willful students or parents. Here are ten essential safety tips that every crossing guard should know to perform their duties effectively and ensure everyone's safety.

1. Be Visible

Visibility is vital for crossing guards. Wearing bright, reflective clothing can help ensure that drivers see you from a distance. Often your employer will issue you a bright orange or neon yellow vest, but we recommend going further with a brightly colored shirts and jackets with a reflective vest worn over them. Studies show that wearing such colors increases visibility by up to 300%. Additionally, using a whistle or a stop sign can effectively grab attention when necessary. The state of Florida has already made this a requirement.

Position yourself to maximize visibility for both pedestrians and drivers to create a safer environment.

2. Know Your Surroundings

Get to know your crossing post. Understand the local traffic patterns, the locations of schools, and any potential hazards. At times construction zones might pop up and you might have to direct students around the work zone. Is the area prone to traffic incidents, and don’t forget the weather, will the area flood in heavy rain? Knowing the environment at your crossing will help you to anticipate problems, allowing for quicker reactions when needed.

Keep an eye out for changes in the environment, such as new traffic patterns, road closures, or updated traffic signals that could affect your duties.

3. Use Clear Signals

Be clear when using signals for both drivers and pedestrians. Use your whistle to indicate to students when it is safe to start entering the crosswalk. Your hand signals should be obvious and easy to interpret by drivers. Remember you’re not directing traffic you help students cross. Don’t cross the line as you might be at fault for an accident.

Regularly practice these signals to ensure that everyone understands what to expect. For instance, a two-handed raised stop signal is easily recognized and is effective in stopping traffic.

4. Stay Alert

Distractions can lead to accidents. Stay focused on your surroundings, avoiding distractions like your phone or engaging in deep conversations while on duty.

By staying alert, you can react quickly to unexpected situations, such as a vehicle not stopping or a child suddenly running into the street. Be aware: I have seen students try and run across the roadway into oncoming traffic because an adult signaled to them. Students should follow the rules of the crossing and wait until the SCG signals that it is safe.

5. Communicate with Drivers

Make eye contact with drivers to confirm they see you before entering the street. Use confident body language to assert your authority.

If a driver does not stop, be ready to act immediately. For example, stepping into the street firmly but safely can help remind drivers of their responsibility to yield to pedestrians but don’t get in the path and force a car to stop. If they are traveling too fast, they might stop inside the crosswalk or stop so suddenly that the vehicle behind them might run into them pushing them forward. AND always wait for a gap in traffic.

6. Educate Children

Take time to teach children safe crossing practices each time they come to your crosswalk. Encourage them to look both ways and over the shoulder for turning cars before crossing and to wait for your signal to cross.

Engage with them by asking questions, like “What do we do before crossing?” This reinforces their understanding while also keeping their attention on safety. Remind them that distractions, like headphones or phones, should be avoided while crossing.

7. Be Patient

Traffic can be unpredictable, requiring you to wait for a gap in the traffic. Exhibit patience, even in stressful situations, as your calm demeanor can set the tone for how both pedestrians and drivers respond.

8. Use Technology Wisely

If available, use modern tools like traffic lights or crossing signals to aid in managing traffic. Stay updated on any new resources that can enhance your effectiveness as a crossing guard. For example, some locations have installed countdown timers at crosswalks, which have been shown to decrease pedestrian accidents by 40%.

9. Report Hazards

If you see hazards, such as potholes, broken sidewalks, or faulty traffic signals, missing signs report them to local authorities. Your observations contribute to community safety and can prompt necessary repairs.

10. Take Care of Yourself

Finally, prioritize your own safety and health. Stay hydrated and keep warm depending on your location. Invest in a good pair of sunglasses to reduce glare. Don’t use umbrellas that can block your view of traffic and keep in good physical fitness. A healthy and alert crossing guard is better equipped to manage challenges.

Final Thoughts For Crossing Guards

Being a School Crossing Guard is rewarding and challenging, requiring focus, communication, and a commitment to student safety. By following these ten essential tips, you can effectively protect children and pedestrians while contributing to a safer community.

Remember, your presence makes a difference, and your dedication to safety is invaluable. Stay alert, remain visible, and ensure that every small step taken by children is a safe one as they navigate the streets!