The start of summer means parents, children and drivers have to be more vigilant; one Knoxville police officer says kids have to be taught to be careful, and adults have to remember to be observant.

Officer Kyle Keller says drivers should keep an eye out for playing children who may run out or try to cross the street, be they on foot or riding a bicycle or scooter.

And he tells KNIA/KRLS News kids need to be taught early and often to be alert for traffic when they’re outside.

“Just being more mindful and careful of traffic, because sometimes people driving just don’t see you when you’re getting ready to go across the road or go across even a crosswalk. You just need to really watch out yourself as a child,” Ofc. Keller says.

Whether they’re in their yard, playing in a park or going swimming, Ofc. Keller says parents should be observant and make sure their kids are playing safely during the summertime.