Many Victoria students will be heading back to school next week, which means that all residents should be thinking about keeping our kids safe while driving. As part of our year-round efforts to keep our residents safe through engagement and education, the Victoria Police Department’s Community Engagement Unit offers the following tips for the back-to-school season:
Remember that there may be a bit more traffic in the mornings and afternoons than you’re used to, especially during the first couple of weeks of school. Plan ahead and leave early so that you won’t be in a rush.
Remember to drive slowly and carefully in school zones. Abide by the school zone speed limits during posted hours.
Keep an eye out for kids who may be crossing the street to get to and from school, even if you aren’t near a crosswalk.
Victoria Police Department officers will be concentrating their efforts in school zones during the coming weeks. Regardless of whether an officer is around or not, drive carefully and be sure to watch for children.
For immediate assistance, call (or text) 911
Last year, the City of Victoria launched the Victoria TX 311 app to allow residents to request service at the click of a button. For the Victoria Police Department, this means that residents can easily reach out to report problem traffic areas or request a home security survey from the Community Engagement Unit.
However, we sometimes see residents using the app to report criminal activity. The app should not be used to report any type of crime, especially during an emergency. The app is not monitored 24/7, and we cannot guarantee that requests will receive a same-day response.
We are taught as children to call 911 in an emergency, and this age-old advice still holds true. However, remember that Victoria residents also have the option of texting 911. This is especially helpful if you in a situation where you can’t speak or don’t want someone to see you talking on the phone.
So remember—in an emergency, call (or text) 911! For non-emergencies that still require a police response, you can call the non-emergency number at 361-573-3221.
Mark your calendar for National Night Out
Getting to know your neighbors is a simple and important step toward keeping each other safe. The Victoria Police Department encourages residents to get to know their neighbors and their local first responders by taking part in National Night Out on Oct. 1. When you join or host a National Night Out block party in your neighborhood, you’ll be able to meet the first responders that serve your area, share your questions and concerns and build connections with the people in your community.
Residents who would like to host a block party and receive a visit from first responders should contact the Community Engagement Unit at 361-485-3808 or PoliceCEU@victoriatx.gov. The first ten parties to register will get a National Night Out swag bag with a T-shirt, cap and other giveaways.
The Victoria Police Department will host our National Night Out Kick-Off Party on Sept. 21, 3-6 p.m. at De Leon Plaza. To host a booth or become a sponsor, please contact us at 361-485-3808 or PoliceCEU@victoriatx.gov.
Officer John Turner is a member of the Victoria Police Department’s Community Engagement Unit.