One-by-one the children climbed the tall steps leading into the bright yellow school bus at Clear Lake Elementary School.
Once in their seats, the 4- and 5-year-olds were ready to practice what they learned at the annual Safety Town, hosted by Oxford Parks & Recreation, last week.
Before getting onto the bus, they learned when to get on the bus, to remain seated at all times and to listen to the bus driver.
They obeyed the rules as they kept their hands, feet and all body parts inside the bus and stayed in their seats when the bus was stopped and in motion.
In addition, the children learned helpful tips on fire safety, bike safety, and more for their well-being like how to eat healthy and safety when in or around water.
For each child, a particular lesson stood out in their minds.
‘Call 9-1-1,? shared Ella P’Simer. ‘If someone is hurt because it’s an emergency.?
Ella added another important lesson for her was to look both ways after her and her family have stopped at an intersection – so they can see if any traffic is coming.
Ben Datsko shared his tip he learned in case of a fire.
‘If a fireman knocks on the door say ‘I am in here,?? he said and added so the firemen know his location and can get to him quicker.
Another lesson he learned was from Lt. Larry Perry from Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Oxford Substation.
‘Don’t touch guns because they are dangerous,? he said and added, ‘anyone you don’t know is a stranger.?
His brother Luke added he learned to always wear a helmet while riding his bike.
They also learned was traffic signs mean.
What does a big, red sign mean to Jeremy Swoyer?
‘Stop,? he said, ‘look both ways.?
He learned hand signals to use when turning left, right, or continuing straight.
Safety Town was created to introduce kids to the correct use of community safety. The week included real-life stimulations to give the kids a chance to practice what they learned.
After the bus came to a stop at Frosty Boy, the kids enjoyed a tasty treat before going back to Clear Lake for their graduation from Safety Town.