School starts on Monday, August 12, 2024, While a new school year is an exciting time for students, parents, and educators, it can be somewhat stressful for drivers. The first week or so of school consistently produces increased bicycle and pedestrian traffic, as well as vehicular traffic, on our roadways.
In an effort to keep our most vulnerable citizens safe, Sheriff Al Nienhuis asks that drivers remain mindful of some important safety information.
– Students will be walking and/or riding bicycles, along sidewalks and/or county roadways, to get to school.
– If your child/children ride bicycles to school, be sure they are properly outfitted with a bicycle helmet.
– Parents who drive children to school should drop them off ONLY is the designated drop off area. Do not drop off children “around the corner” and allow them to walk the remainder of the way, as this practice is not only hazardous, it creates unnecessary traffic congestion.
– Allow a little extra time and expect traffic congestion in school zones.
– When bus routes are available, parents should have children ride the bus, as this alleviates unnecessary traffic in school zones.
– If possible, drivers should avoid school zones.
– Drivers should be mindful of, and follow all directions given by school crossing guards.
– Be patient, put the phone down, reduce or eliminate distractions, and drive carefully.
– Be mindful of school busses. When a school bus stops to pick up or drop off children (and the red lights are flashing), traffic approaching from either direction is required to stop.
– If you experience an emergency or are involved in a crash, call 9-1-1 immediately –
o Tell the operator your exact location
o Answer all of the operator’s questions (this does not delay the response from law enforcement and/or a fire rescue).
– Drivers should pay attention to the speed limit; this includes in school zones.
