Crossing guards ensure safety when crossing streets, roads or overpasses, with requirements varying by location. They may be called school patrol or crossing patrol officers and need people skills, physical fitness, and knowledge of traffic laws. They can also direct traffic during accidents or signal failures. The job can be paid or voluntary.
A crossing guard ensures that it is safe for an individual to cross a street, road or overpass. Many crossing guards are assigned to work in specific areas, such as schools. Other crossing guards can direct traffic in the event of an accident or traffic light failure. Requirements to become a crossing guard may vary by location. Generally, to become a crossing guard, an individual may need to complete a training program which may include becoming familiar with traffic laws and signs and highway safety techniques.
Depending on the location, the name of a person who provides assistance in safely crossing traffic may vary. A crossing guard is just one such title. Other possible titles include a school patrol and crossing patrol officer. Generally, the requirements of such positions are relatively similar, although the names of the positions may vary.
To become a crossing guard, an individual will first need to know the specific requirements for their location and job designation. A common requirement involves completing a training course, which may include learning road signs and basic traffic laws in the area. In addition, classroom sessions and on-site practices may be required to become a crossing guard. An individual can be coached by an active guard to gain some real-time experience in preparation for taking on the role.
An individual who wants to become a crossing guard will need to decide what type of location they want to protect. A school crossing guard is one of the most common types of crossing guards. These guards help children safely cross streets and walkways during the busiest times of the day, including school drop-off and drop-off times. School crossing guards usually also need to know established rules for vehicles and pedestrians while at school. As these types of guards will help ensure proper childcare, a school crossing guard may also need to be trained in first aid.
The ability to stand for long periods of time can be an essential requirement for becoming a crossing guard. Crossing guards generally do most of the work during the busiest times of the day. People skills can be another required skill, as crossing guards are going to be interacting with a lot of people on a regular basis. Being healthy and fit can also be an asset to becoming a crossing guard, as the job can require varying levels of physical activity.
In addition to protecting school grounds, a crossing guard can also direct traffic. Very busy intersections without traffic lights can be protected by a crossing guard. Other job duties may also include directing the flow of traffic during a car accident or during periods when traffic signals do not work properly. Generally, a police officer can serve as a crossing guard to direct busy streets and roads, especially in case of a car accident.
A person fulfilling this position may be paid or provide these services on a voluntary basis. An individual interested in becoming a crossing guard can look in the newspaper, employment agencies or local schools for availability in this position.
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