Extra Police Presence in School Zones for 'Back to School'

This week, CHP officers will be paying special attention to school zones around Sonoma County -- including the area near Healdsburg schools.

Tuesday will mark the start of the year for the Mark West School District, followed by much of the county -- including Healdsburg -- on Wednesday.

Officers will focus on speeding, and right of way violations, as well as child restraint and cell phone use. Special attention will be paid to those drivers not stopping for school bus warning lights, and those not obeying the directions of crossing guards.

The CHP is responsible for collecting complaints from school bus driver of drivers who ignore the signs and flashing red lights requiring them to stop, which come in on a daily basis.

CHP officers follow up on these complaints through extra patrol in those areas.

Drivers are urged to watch for pedestrians, and uncontrolled crosswalks that may not have stop lights or signs.