Heads Up, Helmets On: Walk, Bike & Ride to School Safely

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Fairfax County, VA – As students across Fairfax County head back to school on Monday, August 18, the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) encourages families and community members to participate in Walk, Bike & Ride to School Safely Day.

Whether students walk, bike, ride the bus, or are dropped off, their safety starts with all of us. Let’s work together to protect our youth as they travel to and from school.

Safety Tips for a Safe Start to the School Year

For Walkers:

  • Plan Ahead: Walk your child’s route to school in advance. Choose sidewalks, crosswalks, and well-lit areas.
  • Use Crosswalks and Signals: Teach children to obey pedestrian signals and cross at marked crosswalks.
  • Be Visible: Dress children in bright or reflective clothing to ensure they are seen by drivers, especially in the early morning.
  • Walk in Groups: Walking with friends or neighbors increases visibility and provides additional safety.

For Bikers – Helmet Safety is Essential

Riding a bike to school can be fun and healthy, but only when done safely.

Key Bike Safety Guidelines:

  • Always Wear a Helmet:
    A properly fitted helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85 percent. It is also the law in Fairfax County:
    Under Code § 82-6-38.1, any person under the age of 15 must wear a protective helmet when riding a bicycle.
    Make sure the helmet:
    • Sits level and low on the forehead (no more than 1–2 fingers above the eyebrows)
    • Has straps that form a “V” under the ears
    • Buckles securely under the chin
      Parents and caregivers are encouraged to model helmet use as well.
  • Follow the Rules of the Road:
    • Ride on the right side of the street, with traffic
    • Use hand signals when turning or stopping
    • Obey all traffic signs and signals
    • Stop at stop signs and yield to pedestrians
  • Check Equipment Before Every Ride:
    • Test brakes
    • Inflate tires to the correct pressure
    • Ensure reflectors and lights are working, especially for early or late rides

For Drivers:

  • Be especially alert in school zones and neighborhoods
  • Watch for children crossing the street or biking along the road
  • Yield at crosswalks and obey school bus signals
  • Avoid distractions, including mobile devices
  • Always follow posted speed limits in school zones

Walk, Bike & Ride to School Safely Day is a chance for families to walk or bike to school together, build good habits, and reinforce the importance of road safety. Help us give students a safe and confident start to the school year.

For more information, visit our Traffic Safety Webpage.

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