With nicer weather finally here and school drawing to a close, it is especially critical for motorists to be alert of their surroundings.

Often in the summer months, it is not uncommon to find children playing outside — running to and fro or riding their bicycles.

We ask that you pay particular attention when on the road for these children because they are not always paying attention themselves.

According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, approximately 35 pedestrians and seven bicyclists of all ages are killed each year in Minnesota as a result of collisions with motor vehicles.

The department encourages drivers to scan the road and sidewalks ahead for pedestrians, to drive attentively and at safe speeds and to anticipate pedestrians, especially in urban areas and around schools and colleges.

Drivers should look in all directions for pedestrians before making a turn, stop for crossing pedestrians at every intersection — even those without crosswalks or stoplights — and not block crosswalks while stopped.

Pedestrians should remember to cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersection instead of mid-block and obey traffic signals. They should make eye contact with drivers and ensure they see you and will stop.

Pedestrians are encouraged to use sidewalks when provided and to make sure to wear light colors if walking at night.

Parents and grandparents, take the time to teach this valuable knowledge to your children. They will thank you later.