Tips for summer safety
With summer break just around the corner, Arlington ISD students are getting ready for time away from the classroom filled with swimming, travel, and outdoor fun. Before school lets out, district and community leaders are reminding families that safety should remain a top priority all summer long.
“We know you’re going to make good choices this summer, and we know you’re going to do great things next school year,” said Arlington ISD superintendent Dr. Matt Smith.
Smith joined Arlington Police Department Chief of Police Al Jones at Williams Elementary to speak with students as part of the annual Take 25 initiative. The campaign encourages families to spend 25 minutes talking with their children about important summer safety topics.
“Every chance we can make you feel safe in our city, we want to make sure it happens,” Jones said.
Students learned practical tips for staying safe online, at home, and in the community, including making good decisions, avoiding sharing personal information online, and knowing how to respond if something feels unsafe. Leaders also emphasized reporting suspicious activity and turning to trusted adults when needed.
Water safety was another key focus, with reminders to always swim with adult supervision and use the buddy system.
The Take 25 initiative also encourages families to pair safety conversations with 25 minutes of reading each day to help students stay academically engaged over the summer.
Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind this summer:
Stay safe online
Only communicate with people you know on the internet and social media and never share personal information with strangers. Students were also reminded to be respectful online and help stop cyberbullying by speaking up when they see it happening.
Have a plan
Before going to places like pools, parks, malls, or theme parks, make a plan in case anyone gets separated. Students were reminded to look for trusted adults or people in uniform if they need help.
Use the buddy system
Whether swimming, walking around a public place, or spending time outdoors, stay with a friend or trusted group and avoid going places alone.
Choose good influences
Spend time with positive friends who help you make smart choices and stay safe throughout the summer.
Speak up
Speak up if you notice something unsafe, suspicious, or concerning, and always tell a trusted adult when something does not feel right.
Use parental controls
Families are encouraged to use parental controls on devices and monitor what apps students use during the summer break.
And remember – put your phone away and enjoy some time outside!
“It’s important to have our kids active, healthy, and safe this summer,” Smith said.
Have a safe summer! We’ll see you next school year!