August is Back to School Safety Month...and a really good time to review your family's safety and emergency plans. The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) reminds parents that teaching their children how to stay safe before, during, and after school is crucial.Although schools have emergency plans and hold drills throughout the year, parents should make sure that their children know their phone number, address and how to get in touch with them or another trusted adult in case of an emergency. Traffic safety is also key to keeping children safe. Motorists are reminded that there are heavy fines for going over the speed limit and for texting or using handheld devices while driving through a school zone. State law mandates that drivers come to a complete stop when approaching a school bus that is stopped to pick up or drop off students. Children walking or riding their bikes should only cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. After school, your children should feel safe at home. Post an emergency phone list where your children can see it. Include 9-1-1, your work and cell numbers, numbers for neighbors, and the numbers for anyone else who is nearby and trusted. Practice an emergency plan often so they know what to do in case of fire, injury or other emergency. Get preparedness tips and sign up to receive emergency alerts and updates at www.readyharris.org