With summer ending and schools ramping up for fall, streets around city campuses are becoming increasingly congested with cars, bicycles and pedestrians. The Sacramento Police Department is joining forces with local school districts to remind drivers, bikers and walkers to exercise extreme caution during student drop-off and pick-up times.

Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians are asked to obey traffic laws and follow common sense safety guidelines around campuses year around, but especially during this time of year. Distracted driving such as texting or talking on the phone is not only illegal, but especially dangerous around schools, where hundreds of students may be on foot.

The Sacramento Police Department also urges the community to remember the following safety tips:

·         Always use the crosswalk, preferably at an intersection controlled by a traffic signal/stop sign

·         Turn down the volume on headphones or ear buds and don’t text while walking

·         Remember to “Wait for the Walk” green light for pedestrians, which means DO NOT enter the crosswalk on the flashing red countdown or the solid red hand signal

·         Look both ways while crossing. Walk, don't run

·         Always try and get a visual commitment from the driver, before crossing, even when you have a green pedestrian signal or the right of way

·         When biking, design your route around streets with clearly marked bike lanes, when possible and follow the rules of the road

·         Always wear a bike helmet

·         Bike with the flow of traffic; walk against traffic

·         Use caution when sun glare may degrade a driver's vision 

·         Parents should plan their child's route if they walk or cycle to school (Identify safety spots to seek help, best places to cross roadways, and ensure child does will not get lost)

·         Never walk alone at night, for children, try to always stay in groups when walking