Caddo sheriff's deputies will be enforcing speed limits in school zones when classes resume on August 17, Caddo Sheriff Steve Prator said.

Deputies assigned to the Traffic Safety Unit and Patrol Division will concentrate their efforts at schools located outside the Shreveport city limits “but we’ll be flexible and go where we are needed,” Prator said. “My advice to motorists is to start slowing down now. Know where the school zones on your route are located and get in the habit of watching for children.”

School zones are usually marked by flashing overhead lights, safety cones or crossing guards. Speeds significantly decrease in neighborhoods and on major roadways to keep pedestrians safe.

The sheriff said drivers should also watch for school buses and stop when they are loading or unloading passengers. Drivers in both directions must stop at least 30 feet from the bus when it is loading or unloading. School bus drivers are authorized to notify law enforcement of any violators. Drivers on other roadways or those separated by a median are not required to stop.

Prator said parents should discuss the following safety rules with their children before they return to class:

-Don't walk in the street. Use sidewalks;  
-Mind all traffic signals;  
-Cross with a crossing guard or at the corner;  
-No running or pushing;   
-Walk your bike through all intersections;  
-Carry everything in a backpack or bag;   
-If you travel by school bus, always cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus;  
-If you drop something while getting on or off the bus, never pick it up. Instead, tell the driver; and  
-Be aware of the traffic around you. Drivers are required to follow certain rules of the road, but not all do.   

The sheriff also offered the following suggestions for drivers, parents, and school bus operators.

Drivers -Drive the posted speed limit; and  
Use only designated parking around schools when dropping off children.   

Parents - Make sure children are on time;   

Wait with your children at the bus stop, especially if they are young; 

Always insist that your children buckle up. Remember, most traffic crashes occur close to home. 
 
Bus drivers -Check your bus before going on your route;

Inspect the interior of your bus before and after your route; and

Abide by all traffic laws.