Police presence increased in Menifee school zones

Sheriff's deputies representing the Menifee Police Department will conduct random traffic enforcement details at elementary, middle and high schools throughout the school year, the department announced.

This action is being taken in response to concerns from parents about traffic dangers around local schools, according to a news release. Traffic congestion coupled with increased student enrollment makes driver safety around schools a priority.

The department issued the following guidelines for those driving to or near Menifee schools:

-- Expect delays and exercise patience when dealing with them. Plan ahead by plotting your route and give yourself a few extra minutes to accommodate possible commute delays during mornings and afternoons. The shortest route might not be the fastest route.
-- Exercise caution around schools and neighborhoods by always following the posted speed limit inside school zones, which is often 25 mph maximum but may be as low as 15 mph. Watch for children who may unexpectedly step into traffic.
-- Be extra cautious around school drop-off zones, and make sure your kids are, too. Don’t think safety is over once you drop your child off; there are many others around.
-- If you must use your phone, pull over into a parking spot when it is safe to do so.
-- Avoid distractions such as eating, applying makeup, changing the radio, and using mobile devices.

In addition, the following guidelines are provided for students:

Walking

-- Walk on the sidewalk. If one doesn’t exist, walk facing traffic.
-- When crossing the street, look both ways for cars.
-- Always use the crosswalk if one is available; otherwise, cross at an intersection.
-- Obey traffic signals when crossing the street.
-- Refrain from wearing headphones or using a mobile device.
-- If you walk with friends, don’t be so involved in conversation that you’re not paying attention to what you’re doing.

Biking or skateboarding

-- Get familiar with the safest route and traffic signals and signs.
-- Always wear a properly fitted helmet.
-- Always stop and look both ways before crossing any street or intersection.
-- Never wear headphones.

Taking the bus

-- Wait five giant steps from the road and when the school bus arrives, wait until the driver lets you know that it is safe to board.
-- When boarding the school bus, go straight to your seat and sit facing the front.
-- Respect the driver and minimize distracting behaviors.
-- When exiting the bus, look out for cars and immediately move out of the roadway.