Parents and children using the crosswalk as they walk to school.

Safety Begins With Us

By Larisa Svechin, Vice Mayor

(Friday, August 6, 2021) – It’s that time of year again when our children head back to school and we all know that means increased traffic on the streets and the sidewalks. With kids back in the classroom on August 23, we can expect the usual drop-off and pick-up influx of cars and pedestrians on foot, bikes, and scooters from all across the city.

Parents: if you are walking your child to school, keep an eye on them and the roads. If your child travels to school on their own, stress to them the importance of being alert, not looking at their cell phone and following the traffic signals.

Unfortunately, we all know what can happen when drivers are distracted. For those who travel the city during school drop-off and pick-up, use extra caution. Taking your eyes off the road, even for just a few seconds, can result in severe consequences.

Our safety is my priority, and as a mom of four, children’s safety comes first. Distracted driving has no place in our city. Be mindful and patient – keep yourself and your neighbors safe. Our Police Department has several safety measures in place to keep our children safe, but we all have a part to play. Follow the speed limit, keep your eyes on the road, and don’t fall victim to distractions when driving or walking. Let’s have an excellent school year, both in and out of the classroom.

Contact Vice Mayor Larisa Svechin at seat1@sibfl.net or 305.792.1754.