FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Michael Frederick, Transportation and Parking, (727) 893-7843

 SCHOOLS OPEN AUGUST 21! DO YOUR PART AND DRIVE SMART

 

St. Petersburg (August 14, 2007) – With Pinellas County Schools back in session on Tuesday, August 21, more than 150,000 students will travel daily to and from school by bus, bicycle, private vehicle, or foot.

The city reminds motorists to exercise caution when driving during the coming school months and to observe the 15 mph speed limits in school zones.

On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, the St. Petersburg’s Fire & Rescue and Police Departments will have crews on the streets with banners and signs reminding motorists to slow down. The city will have 76 crossing guards at 54 major street crossings to ensure the safety of our youth near 28 elementary schools and eight middle schools.

The city of St. Petersburg is proud to be a partner with other organizations statewide to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety during “back to school” time and throughout the year. Here are some other rules on how to drive smart to help save lives and reduce injuries:

• Obey posted 15 mph school speed zones;
• Yield to pedestrians in a marked crosswalk;
• Be alert to children on foot, on bicycles, on roller blades and on scooters;
• Watch for children darting across the street mid-block and between parked vehicles;
• Proceed cautiously around schools, playgrounds, parks and neighborhoods;
• Encourage your children to always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, scooter or roller blades; and
• Always expect the unexpected!
• Buckle up, be alert and drive smart!

As students return to class, please consider becoming a mentor. For as little as an hour a week you can have a positive impact on a student through the Mayor’s, Mentors and More school mentoring program. Call 727-551-3268 for more information.