August 25, 2025

News release prepared by: Battalion Chief Greg Orr

News Release
 Back to School Safety Tips

As kids head back to school, Missoula Rural Fire District has some safety tips for both parents and 
drivers.
For Parents:
•     Make sure your child always wears a bicycle helmet! Helmets significantly reduce the risk of 
head injury when worn properly.
•     Always stay on the right-hand side of the road and ride in the same direction as traffic.
•     Be sure your child knows and uses all appropriate hand signals.
•     Choose the safest route between home and school and practice it with your child.
•     If possible, have your child ride or walk with someone else. There is safety in numbers.
•     Make sure your student knows to always use a crosswalk when crossing the street.
For Drivers:
•     Drive slowly in school zones and look out for children.
•     Watch out for school crossing guards and follow their signals.
•     Put your cellphone down while driving.
•     Keep an eye out for children, especially near schools and residential areas.
•     Be patient when driving, dropping kids off and picking kids up from school.
•     Never pass a stopped school bus.
•     Always stop for school buses that are loading and unloading children.

For additional information on back-to-school safety tips or for media inquiries, please call MRFD 
Station 1 at 406-549-6172

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2521 South Avenue West  |  Missoula, MT 59804  |  406-549-6172  |  Fax: 406-549-6023  |  
www.mrfdfire.org