CASPER, WY — As the new school year begins on Monday, Aug. 31, the Natrona County School District is partnering with local law‑enforcement agencies to remind parents and drivers of essential safety practices. The joint effort focuses on traffic safety, pedestrian awareness, and online protection for students returning to classrooms across the district.
Parents urged to start safety conversations
Casper Police Department Public Information Officer Rebekah Ladd said the timing is ideal for families to sit down and discuss simple yet vital safety measures. “Talking about safe routes, paying attention to surroundings, and practicing basic precautions helps ensure our kids are prepared and protected as they head back to school,” Ladd explained.
The district’s Director of Public Relations, Tanya Southerland, added that drivers must remain alert in school zones and at bus stops. “You must stop for buses when the stop sign is out and/or the red lights are flashing. These laws are in place to protect our children. Let’s keep them safe together,” she said.
Traffic safety reminders for drivers
Drivers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with all traffic signs, crosswalks, and school‑zone speed limits not only on their daily commute but throughout the broader neighborhood and county. Natrona County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Kiera Hett emphasized the need for extra caution: “Avoid distractions, slow down, and give yourself extra time on your commute so everyone can arrive safely at their destinations.”
Specific guidance includes using marked crosswalks, never crossing from behind parked cars, shrubs, or signs that could block a motorist’s view, and keeping distractions such as cell phones and headphones out of sight while walking or biking. Bicyclists are reminded to wear helmets, and all road users should stay focused on the task of driving.
Online safety and stranger‑approach protocol
The safety release also highlights the importance of digital vigilance. Parents are urged to have age‑appropriate conversations about online interactions, stressing that children should know who they are talking to and feel comfortable reporting uncomfortable situations to a trusted adult.
In addition, the district promotes the “Say NO, GO and TELL” rule for encounters with strangers. Children are taught to refuse offers from unknown individuals, move away from the situation, and immediately inform a trusted adult—whether a parent, teacher, police officer, firefighter, or relative.
Community collaboration for a safe school year
Both the school district and law‑enforcement agencies stress that safety is a shared responsibility. By combining parental guidance, driver awareness, and proactive community messaging, Natrona County aims to provide a secure environment for students as they transition back to daily routines.
The full safety release and an accompanying video are available on the Natrona County School District website for families seeking additional details.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
