It's 'Operation Safe Passage' Week in Santa Clara County

Announcement from the Los Altos Police Department:

Throughout the week of September 15 – 19, all Santa Clara County police agencies will be participating in Operation Safe Passage, which emphasizes enforcement of traffic laws around school zones.

The goal of Operation Safe Passage is to protect children as they travel to and from school by educating drivers and pedestrians on traffic safety and encouraging safe driving. Together, we can ensure that children and adults who choose to walk or bike can do so in a traffic-safe environment.

Help keep pedestrians safe by following these safety tips for drivers:

• Plan ahead so you’re not in a rush during your morning commute.
• Put your phone down – emails, text messages and apps can wait.
• Watch out for children who may not yield to you or other cars.
• Make eye contact with drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists.
• Slow down and be attentive to your surroundings.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

• Always look left, right and left again when crossing the street.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street and watch out for cars that are turning or backing up.
• Put down your cell phone or mobile device and pay attention to your surroundings.
• Always walk on the sidewalk if one is available. If no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic.
• Use crosswalks. If one is not available, the safest place to cross is at a street corner or intersection.