Families living and working around the Fort Hood area are making final preparations for the new school year. 

Last year, the Operational Test Command was honored to write an article warning drivers and pedestrians of the dangers facing motorists and individuals around bus stops. This year, I want to reiterate the same and expand on a new danger facing our children.

“Pokemon Go” has been one of the hottest recent summer applications. The app is not inherently dangerous; however, it is important that we teach our kids responsible use of the app before they walk to the bus stop.

“Pokemon Go” is a mobile game that uses your phone’s GPS data and clock to show Pokemon hidden near your current, physical location. The Pokemon which appear on-screen in the app can be captured by the user.

Several media sources have reported accidents and robberies as a result of using the “Pokemon Go” app. Children walking to bus stops should avoid using the “Pokemon Go” app, and should not ever deviate from their bus stop walking route to capture or track a Pokemon.

Children should know and understand that a beacon can be placed by other individuals to lure them away from safe areas. Ensure the “Pokemon Go” warnings are taught in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tips found below.

Parents and Children

1. Get to the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.

2. When the bus approaches, stand at least six feet away from the curb, and line up away from the street.

3. Wait until the bus stops, the door opens and the driver says that it’s okay before stepping onto the bus or assisting a child.

4. If you have to cross the street in front of the bus, walk on the sidewalk or along the side of the road to a point at least 10 feet ahead of the bus before you cross. Be sure the bus driver can see you, and you can see the bus driver.

5. Never walk behind the bus.

6. Walk at least six feet away from the side of the bus.

7. If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver. Never try to pick it up because the driver may not be able to see you.

Drivers

1. When backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, watch out for children walking or bicycling to school.

2. When driving in neighborhoods with school zones, watch out for young people who may be thinking about getting to school, but may not be thinking of getting there safely.

3. Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks in the neighborhood.

4. Watch for children playing and congregating near bus stops.

Join me to ensure the last few weeks of summer and the beginning of the school year area are not derailed by a preventable injury or accident.