NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 13, 2014

CONTACT:
Kim Christenson
(847) 247-4889

SCHOOLS OPEN SAFETY TIME

The Vernon Hills Police Department has designated August 20 th through August 29th
as Schools Open Safety Week in Vernon Hills. This runs in conjunction with the AAAChicago Motor Clubs 68th annual Schools Open Drive Carefully campaign that aims
to raise drivers awareness as children go back to school.
Motorists are encouraged to be watchful for children going to and from schools and also
at bus stops. Drivers should be diligent at obeying all rules of the road, especially those
pertaining to school buses that are stopped to pick up or discharge students, and school
zones, where the legal speed limit is 20 miles per hour. As always, the Vernon Hills
Police Department will be persistent in the enforcement of these school-related
violations throughout the school year.
Motorists in Vernon Hills will be receiving constant safety reminders via posters that are
being supplied by the AAA-CMC. The colorful posters, which will be hung throughout
the village, will contain a Schools Open Drive Carefully message.
So that everyone can do their part to keep students safe, the AAA-CMC and the VHPD
have the following tips for drivers:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)

Get in the habit of recognizing school zones on your route of travel.

Look for bicycles, children walking, and crossing guards.
Scan between parked vehicles for children.
Be prepared to take evasive action fast.
Drive with headlights on so children and other drivers can see you.
Avoid using cell phones while driving, especially during before-school and
after-school hours. Remember, with few exceptions (including using a handsfree device or calling 9-1-1), it is now ILLEGAL to use a cell phone on a
roadway at any time.
(more)

Page 2 Schools Open Safety Time

Vernon Hills Police Department
The Vernon Hills Police Department Crime Prevention Unit also urges parents to take
some time to talk to their children about safe walking and teach them the following rules:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

Look all ways before crossing the street.

Cross the road only where there are crosswalks.
Walk, never run, when crossing the street.
Obey the directions given by crossing guards and traffic signals.
Never chase anything into the street.

Anyone who has questions regarding any traffic law can contact Sgt. Greg Slivka at
(847) 362-4449.
#