By Lorie Ham
School is back in session! Depending on where your kids go to school, they may have been back for a couple of weeks, or maybe they are just starting up. All throughout the school year it is important to put safety first when dropping off the kids or driving near schools. And it is important for students to put safety first as well.
Sergeant Todd Lowery, who is in charge of the Reedley PD Traffic Unit, offers some safety tips for parents, children, and those driving past a school.
All Drivers: Be sure to obey the speed limit of 25 miles per hour when you are passing a school.
Parents: Be careful where you drop off your children. Many schools have a drive through drop off area that is actually away from the street and on the campus, which is the safest option.
Students:
1. Always be aware of your surroundings when crossing streets instead of looking down at your phone. Don’t text and walk.
2. Use crosswalks where available and make sure vehicle drivers see you before crossing any street.
The Reedley PD also recently offered some tips on their Facebook page for students and drivers:
1. Take off headphones. Headphones or ear buds can prevent you from hearing oncoming hazards.
2. Never assume a driver is going to yield the right of way to a pedestrian. Stop at the curb or crosswalk, make eye contact, and ensure traffic is stopped before crossing the roadway.
3. Remember that RED MEANS STOP. Drivers are required to stop in both directions when a school bus has its red lights flashing or stop sign extended. This indicates students are getting on or off a bus.
For some back to school bike safety, check out this article by Sunnyside Bicycles in Kings River Life.
Sgt. Lowery says, “Teaching your kids safety starts with the parents and continues with educators, Law Enforcement, and others.”
