With families transitioning to new fall routines and back-to-school activities, it’s a good time to review tips for getting to and from school safely and to consult with your independent agent about insurance property and liability coverages.

Driver alert! Children often misjudge traffic — With school resuming around the country, drivers prepare for the unexpected in school zones, near bus stops and past crossing guards. But drivers should also be on the alert wherever they drive that children could be present.

◊◊◊

Backyard hazards: After-school safety strategies — The start of school signals a seasonal change in routine for many families. Children may spend after-school hours at home with an adult or teen caregiver. Sometimes older children are trusted to be alone for an hour or two until a parent arrives. This change in routine offers a good opportunity to re-evaluate the safety and liability exposures right in your own backyard.

◊◊◊

Make sure loaned school items are covered — As the school year begins, take note of the items your child brings home. For example, many school districts are assigning laptop computers to students for their personal use. Or, your band or orchestra student may be assigned a school-owned instrument, especially if it’s a larger or more costly instrument. It’s a good idea to make sure those items loaned to your child throughout the school year are covered by insurance in the event of a loss.

◊◊◊

School bus safety for children and drivers — With schools gearing up for fall, school buses will be returning to the roads. While statistically school buses are the safest method to transport children to school, it’s a good time for parents to remind children to follow safety rules while on the bus and at the bus stop.

◊◊◊

Homeowner liability is more than child’s play — Whether during school breaks or even just after school hours throughout the year, neighborhoods fill up with children playing in yards and on the sidewalk. Before sending your children out to play, be mindful of the liability they can present.