The sign that summer is coming to a close is finally here… school is back in session. In the midst of all the last minute things that need to be done to prepare for another school year, the Dublin Division of Police asks that parents and students alike remember a few things to make the excitement of a new school year as safe as possible.

Above all, please remember to drive with extra care during school hours, especially when students are arriving or leaving school grounds. In Ohio, the speed limit in marked school zones is 20 mph “during school recess and while children are going to or leaving school” (Ohio Revised Code).

• All students and staff in our schools can help to prevent thefts by taking a few simple precautions:
• Don’t leave items of value in plain view in your cars on school grounds.
• Lock your lockers to prevent easy access to valuables.
• Don’t leave valuables, backpacks, or purses laying around in locker rooms, class rooms, or hallways where they may be an inviting target for thieves.
• Parents and students should remember that, as significant school events approach (proms, athletic events, etc.) police usually receive an increase in complaints about underage drinking, specifically, parties with underage drinking. We ask that parents and students take note of these facts:

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The Dublin Division of Police will participate in the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration from May 23 through June 5.

The annual campaign intends to save lives and reduce injuries through the use of seat belts in automobiles. In the City of Dublin, it is illegal to operate an automobile without a seat belt.

“Click It or Ticket reminds drivers and passengers the dangers and consequences of not wearing a seat belt.” said Lt. John DeJarnette. “One of our main goals each year is to reduce crashes in our community, especially injury accidents. This is one of many strategies we use to accomplish the goal.”

The City issued 46 traffic citations in 2010 for seatbelt violations.

In 2010, Ohio drivers overall increased their seat belt usage from 2009 according to Ohio Traffic Safety Office. However, the Observational Survey of Seat Belt Use in Ohio 2010 said Central Ohio was below the national average of 85 percent for using a seat belt while driving.
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The arrival of spring means the end of the current school year is approaching. Along with plans for graduation, summer vacations, and summer jobs, prom season events and graduation parties are also being planned.

During this time of year, the Division of Police would like to emphasize our commitment to keeping our community safe by reminding everyone to avoid high risk behaviors when celebrating these important life events. Specifically, we encourage parents to have a conversation with their high school students about the dangers of underage alcohol use, illegal drug and prescription drug abuse, driving under the influence, and hosting parties where alcohol is served to those under 21 years of age. (more…)