On “National Walk and Roll to School Day” Wednesday, Police Offer Kids and Drivers Safety Tips

The Pasadena Police Department is encouraging safety for students and drivers ahead of “National Walk and Roll to School Day” this Wednesday.

Police suggested parents teach their children who walk, bike, or roll to school the following safety tips:

• Plan routes on roads with sidewalks or paths away from traffic. If there are no sidewalks, walk or ride as far from cars as possible, facing traffic.
• Use crosswalks, preferably at stop signs or signals. If there are unmarked crosswalks, cross at corners on streets with fewer lanes and lower speed limits.
• Always look left-right-left before crossing the street. Continue to scan for traffic as you cross the street.
• Watch for cars entering/leaving driveways or parking spaces.
• Always wear a helmet when riding or rolling.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Keep earbud or headphone volume low enough so you can still hear around you.

Drivers are also urged to be extra careful and anticipate more foot and bike traffic the morning of Oct. 4. They should be prepared to stop for school buses and children crossing the street, always watch their speed, and slow down in school zones.

Lieutenant Anthony Russo of the Pasadena Police Department said, “National Walk and Roll to School Day is a great opportunity for families to get outside and get moving together. Walking, biking, skateboarding or scootering to school not only provides exercise, but it also helps promote the importance of safe routes to schools.”