Schools across the UAE will reopen on Monday, August 25, marking the start of a brand-new academic year. The first week is always full of excitement and a little chaos, with supplies to buy, uniforms to sort, and routines to adjust. In all the rush, safety can sometimes be overlooked. To make sure every journey to and from school stays stress-free, here’s a handy checklist of back-to-school safety tips for parents, students, and everyone involved in school transport.
For Parents:
- Always use designated drop-off and pick-up zones at schools, and avoid double parking.
- Ensure children wear seatbelts in cars and school buses.
- Teach kids to exit vehicles on the side facing the pavement, not the road.
- Set an example: avoid phone use while driving near schools.
- Leave early to prevent rushing, which often leads to unsafe driving.
For Students:
- Wait for the bus to stop completely before boarding or getting off.
- Cross the street only at pedestrian crossings and after checking both ways.
- Stay seated on the bus and follow the supervisor’s instructions.
- Avoid distractions (like loud music or phones) when walking near traffic.
- Always use zebra crossings or pedestrian bridges near schools.
Dubai Police training for school guards to boost safety
Dubai Police has trained more than 130 security guards across 38 GEMS Education schools on traffic safety and emergency response, ensuring safer drop-offs and pick-ups this academic year.
Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan stressed that guards are the first line of defence in protecting students, with training covering traffic flow, bus boarding safety, and quick response to incidents.
Takeaway for parents: Follow the directions of school security staff; they’ve been specially trained to keep traffic smooth and children safe.
Reminder from Authorities:
Dubai Police and RTA stress that following these simple steps helps protect lives, reduce accidents, and keep the school commute smooth and safe for everyone.
Leave home early – Beat the rush and avoid last-minute stress by planning extra travel time.
Follow traffic laws – Parents and bus drivers alike should slow down near schools, avoid blocking gates, and respect speed limits.
Use designated drop-off zones – Trust security guards’ directions; they’ve been specially trained by Dubai Police to manage traffic and ensure student safety.
Board buses safely – Wait until the bus has fully stopped, follow supervisors’ instructions, and use handrails.
Trust trained staff – School bus drivers and supervisors receive RTA training, while security guards are equipped by Dubai Police to manage emergencies and guide vehicles.
Stay connected – Keep in touch with bus supervisors and school staff so you always know your child’s whereabouts.
Be a role model – Remind children to buckle up, cross only at pedestrian zones, and listen to supervisors at all times.
