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Back To School Safety

08/16/2011

"Schools will be back in session and the St. Francis County Sheriff's Department encourages parents to revisit safety rules with their children," St. Francis County Sheriff Bobby May said. "Drivers are also reminded to pay extra attention due to the increase in school traffic. We all want our children to have a happy and safe return to school."

The SFCSD wants to remind drivers that designated school zones will be in place starting this week. The posted speed limit in a school zone is 15 mph. Drivers are encouraged to adjust their drive times due to the school zones and increased traffic near schools. Drivers also should be aware of students riding bicycles and walking to school. 
Sheriff May offers the following suggestions:

FOR STUDENTS:
When walking
• use the same route every day - avoid short cuts and canals
• walk with friends
• obey all traffic laws
• walk - don't run - across intersections
• go straight home after school
• avoid talking to strangers
• if a stranger approaches, tell a trusted adult such as a parent or teacher
• never get into a vehicle without parent permission

When riding the bus
• stay out of the street - don't horseplay while waiting
• do not distract the driver
• stay seated - keep head and arms inside the bus at all times
• don't walk in the driver's blind spot
• wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before getting on or off

When riding a bicycle
• always wear a helmet
• know and use appropriate hand signals
• stay on the right-hand side of the road - ride in the same direction as traffic


FOR PARENTS:
• give yourself and your kids plenty of time
• don't allow your child to be at school any earlier than 15 minutes prior to the start of school
• always use child safety seats and safety belts correctly
• children should enter and leave the car on its curbside
• choose the safest route between home and school and practice walking it with children
• check with your school principal to make sure bicycles are allowed
• pick your child up on time so they aren't waiting unattended
• make sure students who drive themselves to school are fully aware of all traffic and safety rules

Please read the "Message from the Sheriff" at Stfranciscountysheriff.org for additional Back to School safety tips. By being alert and working together we all can enjoy a safe new school year.

/s/ Sheriff Bobby May

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