Monrovia Police Department would like to remind drivers that when children return back to school after summer break, traffic congestion will be increased on the road and drivers will need to be extra cautious.

Whether in a school zone or a residential neighborhood, drivers need to remember to slow down and be prepared to stop. The speed limit in school zones and residential neighborhoods is 25 miles per hour, unless posted otherwise; some school zones may have speed limits as low as 15 miles per hour.

Always stop for school buses.  Flashing yellow lights on a school bus indicate it is preparing to stop to load or unload children, and drivers should slow down and prepare to stop.  Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate the bus has stopped, and children are getting on and off.  Drivers are required to stop their vehicles and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop sign is withdrawn and the bus begins moving before they can start driving again.  The greatest risk to children is not riding on the bus, but getting on and off the bus.

Always drive carefully near schools, playgrounds, parks, and residential areas, because children may suddenly dart into the street from between parked cars and other objects along the roadway.  Also, many children have not yet developed the ability to judge speeds and distances well enough to cross streets safely when cars are moving fast.  Drivers need to stay alert and obey traffic signs, especially where children may be present.  Slow down and stay alert to help keep children safe!