Police from around the region are warning drivers to be on their toes as children head to school Wednesday, some for the first time in more than a week.
Corners piled high with snow and sidewalks blocked by ice will make the daily trek to school treacherous until warmer days come to pass.
Police in Alexandria, where classes resume Wednesday, will be out in force in and around city schools to keep the streets safe for students. Their stepped-up presence will last through the end of the week.
As schools reopen, the Alexandria Police Department asks residents to “assist by continuing to clear student walking routes, escorting students to school or bus stops and driving with increased care during these challenging circumstances,” a spokeswoman said.
Police departments advise students to:
— Make sure to face traffic and walk close to the side of the street if paths and sidewalks are unusable.
— Watch for vehicles pulling out of driveways and side streets, and stop to make sure the driver sees you before crossing.
— Choose walking routes with the fewest streets to cross and avoid crossing busy or high-speed roadways.
— Wear extra-bright clothing to help drivers see you, even during the day.
— Do not count on drivers to follow the rules and be prepared for them if they don’t.
Drivers should:
— Approach intersections, especially those blocked by snowbanks, at slow speeds. Come to a full stop, then slowly move out to make sure the road is clear.
— Pay close attention to school zones and reduce speed appropriately, even when lights are not flashing because of possible delayed school openings.
— Police are asking that parents who can walk with their children do so, or find ways to carpool in an effort to reduce the number of cars dropping students off at busy parking lots.
