Motorists Advised To Drive Carefully Near Schools As Students Return To Class

By Bay City News Service

As Sonoma County students head back to classrooms, safety officials are reminding motorists to drive cautiously near schools.

Schools in the Healdsburg Unified School District are back in session today and police are advising motorists to watch out for children and parents on the road, walking across streets and pedaling on bicycles.

To create a safe environment around schools police are reminding motorists to drive slowly, avoid routes near schools and be aware that law enforcement is out in full force.

In Petaluma, public schools resume Tuesday and police during the first week of the academic year will be deploying extra officers near campuses.

The extra enforcement hopes to increase safe driving practices and limit dangerous maneuvers. This is part of an educational campaign to improve safety in designated school zones.

Also as part of safety campaign, police are giving away free bicycle helmets to students under 18. The law requires minors wear a helmet while bicycling.

Students and parents of juveniles can pick up helmets at the Petaluma Police Department at 969 Petaluma Blvd. North.

There are dozens still available, police said.

Petaluma police Sgt. Ken Savano said with school back in session "traffic volumes will increase significantly" and he advised drivers pay attention and watch out for students.