John Walsh, safety expert and former host of "America's Most Wanted" has come out with "The Safe Side"to help teach parents and children how to stay safe.

1. All families should develop a family safety plan for emergencies that is easy to use and remember. Create and practice a "safe" word with your children to be used if someone other that you needs to pick them up .Children should know where the designated meeting places is outside of the house in an emergency and where to find contact information and a first-aid kit.

2.  If your child will be walking to and from school then walk it with them before school starts. Point out to them where the safety zones are: libraries, fire stations etc. and the places to be avoided. And stress to never take shortcuts.

3.Building a network with other parents and children is crucial. It's never a good idea for a child to walk alone, they should always have a "buddy". Set up a schedule where one parent can walk in the morning and another after school if possible.

4.Talk to your child about "Stranger Danger". Tell them its OK to say no to an adult that they don't know.Teach them what to do if a stranger approaches, yelling "You aren't my Mom/Dad".

• Be alert at all times! Some schools start very early and kids are out before the sun comes up. Follow the speed limit and heed flashing lights in a school zone.
• It is against Florida State law to pass a school bus that is loading or unloading children.
• Both directions of traffic on a undivided road(no median) must stop for schools buses loading or unloading. No passing!
• You are not required to stop if on a divided highway with at least 5 feet of median or barrier and traveling in the OPPOSITE direction as the school bus. Check with the DOT for all questions regarding your area.