As the new school year approaches, local police remind parents and other drivers to practice traffic safety when driving near schools.

The following traffic safety tips will help children have a safe school year.

•Drivers should slow down and focus on their driving. Avoid distractions and remember that school areas can be congested and hazardous. Drive at a safe speed, no faster than 25 mph when children are present.

•Obey right of way laws. Yield to pedestrians and other motorists when required to minimize traffic congestion and gridlock.

•Make sure all passengers are buckled up in the proper restraint systems. It’s the law.

•Avoid U-turns. If a U-turn is necessary, do so only when it’s safe and legal. Don’t make Uturns in school zones, congested areas or close to intersections.

•Park in designated areas only. No stopping or parking in red zones. The immediate dropping off or picking up of passengers is acceptable in posted noparking zones, but motorists cannot stop at a red curb at any time. Don’t park where it’s illegal, even for a moment.

•If children must be dropped off across the street

from the school, send them to a crosswalk or an intersection where they can cross safely. •Cooperate with the crossing guards who are directing traffic. •Watch for children on bicycles riding to school. •Helmets are required for all bicycle riders under 18. •Allow for extra driving time the first few weeks

of school.

•Do not leave valuables behind in an unattended vehicle. At the end of the last school year, a rash of car burglaries took place near schools in Simi Valley. The suspect(s) would watch until parents left their parked cars to walk their children to school and then break into the vehicles to steal valuables.

This article is provided by the Simi Valley Police Department.