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Wilson Kids Learn To Be Safe On Way To School

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WILSON — Most kids know already not to talk with strangers on the way to school, but there are other dangers that can catch them off-guard. This week in Wilson, some children are getting a police escort to campus. It is all about teaching kids how to stay safe.

As the children head to school, they are surrounded by adults -- police, volunteers, health workers and school workers -- whose only duty is to find danger on the way and get rid of it. Today's biggest complaint is stray dogs.

"Sometimes, they will be chasing you and then, like most of them, try to jump on you and stuff," says fifth-grader Khalil Rogers.

Broken glass, litter and garbage bins on the sidewalk can all pose potential risk. The police say most kids know to stay away from a dangerous situation, but they might not recognize a nuisance on the way to class. Walking through long, wet grass, for example, might make for a long morning in the classroom.

"They wind up having to go to school with wet feet and sit in class all day," says Sgt. William Biddle of the Wilson Police Department.

Daniels Elementary is the fifth school in Wilson County to get the escort this week. This is Wilson's third year of inspecting school routes. A national campaign is scheduled for October.

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