Julie Wilson led a group of about 20 children, mostly ages 4 and 5, out the doors of the Susan P. Byrnes Health Education Center and to the crosswalk at Maple and George streets in York.

Early in their lesson on pedestrian safety, the kids were already faced with their first challenge.

"Does anybody see a sign or symbol that says it's OK to walk?" asked Wilson, an educator at the center. A few pointed to the flashing red hand on the sign above their heads.

They waited for the signal to change and marched across George Street to Junior Achievement's BizTown, where they spent time on a make-believe street to learn more about crossing roads safely.

Pedestrian safety was one of the topics covered in Safety Town, which was

Madisson Rouscher holds up a 'GO' sign as kids in Safety Town, run by the Susan P. Byrnes Health Education Center, learn about pedestrian safety.



(Daily Record/Sunday News - Jason Plotkin)
offered for the first time in the city, at the Byrnes center. The program gives kids tips on being safe in a number of situations, whether they're on the playground, on the street or in a fire.

About half of the students in this week's class live in the city, and the other half were from surrounding municipalities, said Emmy Sasala, one of the program directors.

The topics were geared toward city residents but were useful for all kids, she said.

"It's really what the safety issues are in your area," she said.

For example, the city program didn't go over bus safety, but other municipalities that offer the service might have included that topic, Sasala said.

With all the traffic in the city, pedestrian safety is certainly relevant, she said. And the visits from police officers and firefighters help acquaint the children.

"I think it's applicable to anyone," Sasala said.

Andrea Flynn, of Springettsbury Township dropped off her son, Joshua, 5, at the center Friday morning. Her reason for signing him up dates to her childhood.

"I went to Safety Town when I was a kid," she said. "I still remember (it) to this day."

She reviews worksheets sent home with her son, and he remembers much of what he learned, she said. He was particularly excited after the fire safety demonstration, when firefighters visited with a truck and equipment.

"It starts them off with the right impression of authority in our community," Flynn said.

amason@ydr.com; 771-2048

IF YOU GO

The Susan P. Byrnes Health Education Center will run Safety Town again in September, if there is enough interest. For information, call the center at 848-3064.

TOPICS

The following topics were covered with 4- and 5-year-olds during Safety Town at the Susan P. Byrnes Health Education Center in York this week:

--- Stranger danger

--- Police safety

--- Animal safety

--- Fire safety

--- Playground safety

--- First aid/poison control

--- Helmet and bicycle safety

--- Pedestrian safety

--- Water safety