The Madison Police Department would like to welcome students, teachers and parents back to school for the 2012-2013 School Year.

As School begins we would like to remind motorists of School Zone safety and ask that they:

• Slow down in school zones

• Stay alert for the presence of children

• Watch for school crossing guards and please obey their direction

• Yield to pedestrians who are crossing the street

• Be aware of Parking Restrictions and park accordingly

Additionally, Madison Police School Crossing Guard Supervisors wish to remind the public of Wisconsin Statute:

346.46 (2m)?Every operator of a motor vehicle approaching a school crossing which is controlled by an adult school crossing guard appointed under s. 120.13 (31) or 349.215 shall follow the directions of the school crossing guard. If directed by the school crossing guard to stop, the operator shall stop the vehicle not less than 10 feet nor more than 30 feet from the school crossing and shall remain stopped until the school crossing guard exits the roadway and lowers their stop sign.

The Madison Police Department considers School Zone safety a top priority and will be working School Zone enforcement throughout the school year. Please keep our children safe.

The Madison Police Department is committed to improving traffic safety in our community by increasing compliance with traffic laws through education and enforcement. Although law enforcement efforts are an important part of public safety, we rely heavily on the cooperation of the public to be aware of and to follow all traffic laws, whether as a pedestrian, bicyclist or motorist.

The Madison Police Department supports the "Zero In Wisconsin" campaign and believes that we all can make a difference. Please remember to drive safely and to "buckle up." State law now allows law enforcement to stop a vehicle when the driver is not observed wearing a safety belt. The Madison Police Department also reminds motorists that state law requires that vehicles yield right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Remember - don't drink and drive!