This morning, Officers from Downingtown Police Department and staff from Downingtown Area School District took to the streets to meet with families and students to discuss crosswalk safety, and to welcome them back to school for another amazing and safe year ahead. DPD wants to remind all pedestrians and drivers to remain vigilant and stay aware of their surroundings, especially in school zones and crosswalks. 

A few things to remember:

• Pedestrians already within the crosswalk have the right of way, and drivers MUST yield to the pedestrians.
• Drivers are not required to yield UNTIL a pedestrian begins to step into the crosswalk.
• IF a pedestrian crosses the street at a non-signaled intersection and without a crosswalk, the pedestrian MUST yield to oncoming vehicles.
• NEVER cross between parked cars on a street.
• Pedestrians should not run or walk unexpectedly into the path of a moving vehicle. Pedestrians should never assume that drivers can see them and will yield.
• Pedestrians should look left, right and left again, and make eye contact with the driver before entering the crosswalk. 

DPD asks that drivers and pedestrians all practice patience, so that everyone can have a safe and healthy school year. Be Aware and Cross with Care!

(Picture 1: Student crossing Pennsylvania Avenue with Officer Coyle and Officer Borra, within the crosswalk)

(Picture 2: DPD and DASD Officials at the crosswalk. Left to right, Officer Coyle, Asst. Superintendent Dr. Chance, Educator Samantha Smith, Officer Borra, and Chief Brazunas)

(Picture 3: Students greeted by Principal Harrison before entering the school)