Police Department urges caution as school begins

Local public schools are back in session for the fall semester and the Las Cruces Police Department (LDPD) is encouraging motorists to use caution when driving near school zones and bus stops.

In addition to watching for increased pedestrian traffic, drivers should be aware that construction projects at three Las Cruces schools – Desert Hills Elementary, Hillrise Elementary and Lynn Middle School – will have an impact on the flow of traffic near those schools, LCPD said in a news release.

Las Cruces police are providing these safety tips for drivers and students:

Tips for motorists

• Obey all traffic laws and speed limits, especially the 15 MPH limit in school zones.

• Do not pass other vehicles in school zones or at crosswalks.

• Do not change lanes in school zones.

• Do not make U-Turns in school zones.

• Do not text or otherwise use a cell phone unless it is completely hands-free.

• Stop for school buses that are loading or unloading children.

• Watch for and obey signals from school crossing guards.

• Be alert and watch for children near schools, bus stops and in school parking lots.

• Unless licensed to do so, do not park in handicap spaces to drop off or pick up children.

• Do not park at curbs painted yellow, or red which are designated for emergency vehicles only.

Tips for students and parents

• Parents of younger students who ride a school bus should consider escorting their children to and from their scheduled bus stop.

• Children should not stand or play in the roadway while waiting for, or leaving, a school bus.

• Students who ride the bus should follow all safety rules and avoid distracting the driver.

• Students who walk should do so in pairs, or groups, for safety and follow rules for pedestrians.

• Students should avoid distractions, such as cell phone and earphone usage, while walking near or crossing roadways.

• Cross streets only at crosswalks and follow the directions given by school crossing guards.

• Students who ride a bike should wear a helmet and follow all safety rules for bicyclists.

• Walk – don’t ride – a bicycle across streets and only in designated crosswalks.

• Teenage students who drive to school should avoid speeding and minimize distractions from cell phone usage, eating, loud music or disruptive passengers.

• Never overload a vehicle. Every passenger must use a safety belt.

• Avoid horseplay on sidewalks, while riding a bus or bicycle, and while traveling in a vehicle.

• Do not share social media posts that suggest threats against a school or individual. Instead, screen-save the threatening post and immediately report it to authorities.

• If you learn of any threat – direct or suggested – against a school or individual, immediately report it to your teacher or call LCPD. The emergency number is 911. The main number is 575-528-4310.