Full Notification

Beginning Monday, August 19, our local streets will be filled with children walking, biking and rolling back to school! Please take a few moments to review some quick tips and suggestions to help keep children safe as they begin the new school year.

Back to School Safety Tips for Drivers

• Drivers are encouraged to leave earlier than usual, as there will likely be delays along travel routes. 
• Please observe speed limits – remember the speed limit in local school zones is 15mph. 
• Look out for crossing guards around most elementary schools who will be stopping traffic so children can safely cross the street. 
• When dropping off children, please do so in designated school drop off areas.
• Review street safety tips with your children and newly licensed drivers.  For a list of great tips, visit http://www.nsc.org/safety_home/SafetyObservances/Pages/BackToSchoolSafety.aspx.
• Above all, drivers are encouraged to remain patient and remember the goal is for everyone to arrive at their destination safely!

Topics to Discuss and Consider

If your child will be left unattended until adults arrive home, please consider and/or discuss the following:

• What route will your child be taking to and from school?
• Will your child be required to call an adult when they have arrived safely at the appropriate location?
• Does your child have an electronic device with GPS?
• Have you discussed a set of pre-determined rules? This may include having friends over, opening the door to strangers and use of electronics.
• How long will your child be home alone?
• Will your child be required to prepare a snack or a meal? If so, what are the rules for using the stove, oven and microwave?
• Will your child be alone? If siblings are under their care, are they willing and capable to do so?
• How child-safe is your home (e.g. alcohol, prescription medication, tobacco, car keys, lighters/matches, guns, etc.)?
• Who can your child call in case of an emergency? Where can your child find important phone numbers?
• Does your child know what to do in the case of fire, earthquake or other disaster?

Finally, Los Altos Police asks all families to teach their children how to use the 9-1-1 emergency telephone system. This should include situations where it is appropriate to call 9-1-1 (e.g. lost, fire, accident, crime, very sick or hurt, etc.) and what information Dispatchers will ask of callers, such as name, address, phone number and type of emergency.