Back to School Safety Tips

August 23, 2007 - The Houston Police Department, in conjunction with the Houston Fire Department, the Houston Parks and Recreation Department and the Houston Independent School District addressed back to school safety tips during a press conference held today at HFD Fire Station #11 at 460 T.C. Jester.

It is our duty and responsibility as parents and drivers to redevelop habits that protect our most precious resource… our children!

We encourage citizens to obey school zone laws and watch out for children as we drive. Be aware that school is starting back up and habits that we may have developed during the summer months need to be revised as we travel throughout our city. We need to ensure that children in general reach their destination safely whether they travel by foot, bicycle, bus or private vehicle.

By obeying traffic laws in and around school zones, we can ensure the safety of our children and prevent accidents from happening.

· The fines for speeding violations can cost you up to $350 according to the speed you are traveling over the school zone limit.

· Citizens must ensure that they stop once they observe the stop sign signal and/or flashing lights of a school bus activated and cannot resume travel until the bus resumes motion or the bus driver signals them to continue. The fines for not stopping for a school bus that is loading and/or unloading children can range from $200 to $1,000.

· Seatbelt violations range from $150 to $200 for adults and a minimum of $200 for children who are unrestrained.

Other safety tips that we need to impart to our children to ensure their well-being include:

Do not to talk to strangers. Advise children how to handle a situation where someone attempts to lure them with prizes or tries to abduct them. Be aware of potential problems that could arise while at home by themselves (latchkey kids). Learn bicycle safety tips while riding to and from school (prevention of injuries) and the importance of finding qualified caregivers for before and after school care.

For more information please contact the Public Affairs Division at (713) 308-3200 or visit our website at www.houstonpolice.org.

JGA/MES 8-23-07

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.