As students in Fairfax County prepare to return to school on August 18, the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) is urging families and community members to take part in Walk, Bike & Ride to School Safely Day. The initiative highlights the importance of safety for students traveling by foot, bicycle, bus, or car.
The FCPD has shared several tips for families to help ensure a safe start to the school year. For those walking to school, parents are encouraged to plan routes ahead of time that use sidewalks and crosswalks in well-lit areas. Children should be taught to obey pedestrian signals and cross at marked locations. Wearing bright or reflective clothing can help make children more visible to drivers, especially during early morning hours. Walking in groups is also recommended as it increases visibility and safety.
Bicycle safety remains a key focus for the department. According to FCPD, “A properly fitted helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85 percent. It is also the law in Fairfax County: Under Code § 82-6-38.1, any person under the age of 15 must wear a protective helmet when riding a bicycle.” The department advises that helmets should sit level and low on the forehead with straps forming a “V” under the ears and buckled securely under the chin. Parents are also encouraged to set an example by wearing helmets themselves.
Cyclists are reminded to ride on the right side of the street with traffic flow, use hand signals when turning or stopping, obey all traffic signs and signals, stop at stop signs, and yield to pedestrians. Checking equipment before every ride—such as testing brakes, inflating tires properly, and ensuring reflectors and lights are functional—is also advised.
Drivers play an important role in student safety as well. The FCPD urges motorists to remain alert in school zones and neighborhoods; watch for children crossing streets or biking along roads; yield at crosswalks; obey school bus signals; avoid distractions like mobile devices; and follow posted speed limits near schools.
The department describes Walk, Bike & Ride to School Safely Day as “a chance for families to walk or bike to school together, build good habits, and reinforce the importance of road safety.” Community members are encouraged to support efforts that provide students with a secure journey at the start of each academic year.
More information about local traffic safety initiatives can be found on FCPD’s Traffic Safety Webpage (https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/topics/trafficsafety). Residents may also register their security cameras through Connect Fairfax County (https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/partnerships/connectfairfax), which assists police investigations including locating missing persons.
For updates from FCPD throughout the year, residents can read their blog or follow @FairfaxCountyPD on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/fairfaxcountypd), and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/fairfaxcountypd).
