In recognition of International Walk to School Day, more than 50 Daffodil Elementary students walked to their school with East Pierce Fire and Rescue clowns and the Sumner Police Department squad cars leading the way.

“Walking to school is a great way for kids to get exercise and reduce traffic congestion near schools,” said East Pierce Fire Chief Jerry Thorson. “We are making every effort to raise awareness of pedestrian hazards and provide leadership and resources to keep kids safe and improve the quality of life in our communities.”

During the walk, East Pierce safety clowns Bunkers and Highrise gave kids safety tips on how to be aware when crossing the street, noticing hazards or dangerous situations, and the importance of crosswalk and traffic light signs.

More than 250,000 schoolchildren across the nation participate in Walk to School Day in order to learn safe walking skills.

“Our children learn by mimicking what they see,” said Dina Sutherland, East Pierce public education specialist. “By walking with them on International Walk to School Day, we can show children how to walk safely.”

According to the World Health Organization, road traffic injuries are the second-leading cause of death among children ages 5 to 14 worldwide. More than 61 children are injured every day, some severely enough to seek medical attention. Nearly 500 children are killed annually.

The Federal Way Mirror, a sister paper of the Courier Herald, reported a 15 year-old girl was hit by a school bus on Oct. 16 while crossing the crosswalk in front of her high school.

The student was taken to Harborview Medical Center in serious condition.