Thomasville police offer back-to-school safety tips

THOMASVILLE — A new school year is about to begin for area students, and the Thomasville Police Department encourages residents to slow down, avoid distractions, and obey posted school zone signage. Drivers are also encouraged to be aware of speed detection cameras in school zones and increased traffic and children walking and biking in school areas.

“Our primary concern is the protection of our children from traffic-related fatalities by following the designated speed limits within school zones,” Thomasville Police Department Major Wade Glover said. “We encourage our residents and visitors to not only obey speed limits but be extra cautious of their surroundings and mindful of school buses on the road and additional children walking or biking in school zone areas.”

Speed detection cameras are located in school zones throughout the city of Thomasville in the following areas: South Broad Street (near Jerger Elementary School), East Jackson Street (near Thomasville High School), West Jackson Street (near Harper Elementary School), and East Clay Street (near MacIntyre Park School). The devices are active any day school is in session from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“We want our citizens to know that the speed limit in these areas is 35 mph; however, when the yellow school zone lights are flashing from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and again from 2:30-3:30 p.m., the speed limit is reduced to 25 mph,” Glover noted.

When violations are detected by the speed detection cameras, they are reviewed and approved by a sworn officer before a citation is issued and mailed to the address associated with the vehicle. These citations do not go on a driver’s history, but a hold is placed on your vehicle registration if the citation is not paid.

Additional safety tips for motorists and pedestrians to keep in mind as the school year begins include:

♦ Be alert and aware of your surroundings while driving and avoid using cellphones — children are often unpredictable and can dart out in front of vehicles;

♦ Remember that it’s illegal to pass a school bus that has its stop sign extended;

♦ Always look both ways before crossing a street;

♦ Always walk on a sidewalk and use crosswalks;

♦ Don’t listen to headphones while walking or riding a bike.

TPD encourages motorists to be patient when traveling through school zones and when waiting to pick up children in school drop-off lines.

“We should all recognize that everyone has somewhere to be, and many are adjusting to a new routine,” Glover said. “Be courteous and patient so we all remain safe.”

For more information, contact the Thomasville Police Department at (229) 227-3249.