LASD offers back-to-school safety reminders
Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station officials shared safety advice for parents, staff and students for the first day of school in the 2019 fall semester.
Patrol and motor deputies are expected to be patrolling Santa Clarita Valley to ensure motorists are being safe and are in compliance with the law, for the back-to-school season, according to L.A. County Sheriff’s Department officials.
Recommended driving tips:
▪ Slow down.
▪ Be mindful of school zones.
▪ Always stop for a crossing guard holding up a stop sign and follow directions.
▪ Near schools, watch out for bicyclists and pedestrians.
▪ If a school bus is stopped and flashing red lights, you must stop from either direction until the lights stop flashing and children have safely crossed the road.
Deputies are also advising that parents practice these driving tips for pick-ups and drop-offs:
Heads Up
▪ Avoid any distracted driving (no cell phones, eating, putting on makeup, etc.)
▪ Be alert; children often are unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks
Drop-Off
▪ Allow extra time for morning drop-off; plan to arrive early, not a minute before the bell rings
▪ If the school has a “valet drop-off program,” please take advantage and use it
▪ Have patience, and extend courtesy to other motorists and pedestrians
▪ Use designated crosswalks when walking to school; no cutting in between cars to save time
Stop/Park Legally
▪ Do not stop or park in posted zones where it is prohibited
▪ Don’t park in crosswalks/ intersections
▪ Don't illegally double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles
▪ Don’t park in fire lanes
▪ Don’t block residential (private) driveways
▪ Don’t stop or park in or block handicap spaces
▪ If you park in a handicap space without a placard, the fine is $393
Sheriff’s officials say deputies are looking forward to another great school year, and reminding motorists to be mindful of school zones and school buses carrying children. The community can expect local deputies to be paying close attention to school zones and the safe operation of vehicles throughout the Santa Clarita Valley.