Back to School Safety

Back to school! Words parents love to hear; words kids hate to hear. As the beginning of a school year approaches, the Napa Police Department would like to offer parents a few tips on getting your children to and from school safely.

Bicycle Safety Tips

If your child will be riding his or her bicycle to school, going over these simple tips will help ensure a safe arrival at school and a safe return home...

Always wear a helmet. California law requires juveniles up to the age of 18 to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
Always stop for a red light or stop sign. Bicycle riders have to obey the same signs that cars do.
Always us the proper hand signals when making a turn
At busy street corners, get off and walk your bike across the street.
Always ride single file except to pass.

Safe Walking Tips

Many children walk to school. In Napa, at most busy intersections near the school, adult crossing guards and members of our Junior Traffic Patrol are available to assist your children in crossing the street. Here are a few tips for kids to remember when crossing guards are not present.

Cross at crosswalks. Keep to the right in the crosswalk.
Before crossing, look in every direction.
At crosswalks with signals, cross only on the proper "Walk" signal. This signal may be different at each intersection. Make sure your children know all the different symbols and what they stand for.
Avoid crossing between parked cars.
Watch for turning cars at intersections