Tips for safe driving to and from school
Practices will ensure successful pickup and drop-off

The 2007-08 school year will begin soon, and the Simi Valley Police Department would like to remind parents and other drivers to practice basic traffic safety when driving near schools.

The following are examples of good safety practices.

•The increased number of children walking to and from school, in addition to drivers dropping off children, should alert drivers to slow down and focus on their driving. Avoid preventable distractions. School areas can be congested and hazardous, so drive at a safe speed no faster than 25 mph when children are present.

•Obey right-of-way laws. Yield to pedestrians and other motorists when required to minimize traffic congestion and gridlock.

•Make sure that all passengers are buckled up in an appropriate restraint system. It's the law.

•Avoid U-turns. If a U-turn is necessary, do so only where it's safe and legal. Don't make Uturns in school zones, congested areas or close to intersections.

•Park in designated areas only. No stopping or parking is permitted in red-zone areas. The immediate dropping off or pickup of passengers is acceptable in posted no-parking zones unless there is a red curb. Don't park where it's illegal, even for a moment.

•If children must be dropped off across the street from school, send them to a crosswalk or an intersection where they can cross safely.

•Cooperate with the crossing guards who are directing traffic.