Police offer back-to-school traffic safety tips

Increased traffic around schools during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal is expected as a new school year begins this week, and everyone is encouraged to slow down, stay alert and exercise extra caution.

Hawai‘i Police Department reminds all students, parents, motorists and pedestrians that safety is a shared responsibility.

“Our school crossing guards are committed to protecting students every day and share one common goal: everyone arrives at school and returns home safely,” said a department release. “They ask all motorists, parents and pedestrians to work with them by following traffic laws, obeying their directions and making safe choices around school crossings. Your cooperation helps create a safer environment for everyone.”

Back-to-school safety tips

For students and pedestrians

• Always use designated crosswalks and obey directions of school crossing guards and traffic signals.
• Stop at the curb, look left, right and left again before crossing.
• Avoid distractions such as cellphones, headphones or other electronic devices while walking.
• Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into a crosswalk to ensure they see you.
• Walk on sidewalks whenever available. If no sidewalk exists, walk facing oncoming traffic.
• Ride bicycles, scooters and skateboards safely by following traffic laws and wearing a properly fitted helmet.

For parents

• Allow extra travel time and avoid rushing during school drop-off and pickup.
• Use designated loading and unloading areas and never double park or stop in crosswalks.
• Remind children to follow the directions of crossing guards and practice safe walking habits every day.

For motorists

• Slow down and remain vigilant in school zones and residential neighborhoods.
• Obey posted speed limits and be prepared to stop for children crossing the street.
• Yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and always follow directions of school crossing guards.
• Eliminate distractions by putting away mobile devices while driving.
• Watch carefully for children who might unexpectedly enter the roadway, especially near school buses and parks.

“Together, we can make this school year a safe one,” the police release said. “Our school crossing guards are out every school day because they care deeply about the safety of our keiki.”

Everyone is asked to do their part by slowing down, staying attentive and showing patience and courtesy in school zones.

Every safe trip to and from school begins with each motorist making responsible choices.