Guthrie Police to increase traffic control in school zones

The Guthrie Police Department has received several calls about motorists in school zones disobeying traffic laws and not paying attention to school children. In an effort to keep everyone safe, the department will be increasing their presence in school zones.

Beginning Monday, Jan. 11 the department says they will increase patrol around schools to provide safety for the children.

Officials with the police department say they have received numerous traffic complaints ranging from improper parking to reckless driving in the areas of schools. Both officers and school staff say they have witnessed children nearly struck by motorists as a result of these types of traffic infractions.

Guthrie Police encourages anyone who witnesses unsafe driving behavior to contact them at 405-282-3535.

Here are a few school related traffic reminders:

* Make sure to watch for children crossing roadways even outside of school zones, as many children walk home from schools or bus stops.

* Some school zones do not have flashing lights, so pay attention to speed limit and other posted signs.

* Do not park or obstruct bus loading/unloading zones even if school has already begun.  We regularly have late buses or special needs buses who drop off children after school starts.

* Don’t pass busses with flashing lights even if you are on the opposite side of the roadway.

* Obey no parking signs.  These signs are present to make children safer and help busses and traffic flow freely.

* Do not stop in the roadway to let your child out.  Pull to the side of the road to unload, and walk younger children in to the school.

For more information on safe driving practices, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety Driver’s Manual is a good resource.