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Back to school safety tips

It’s just a couple weeks before school starts up again, which means increased foot, vehicle and bicycle traffic going to and from the schools. Drivers should be sure to keep their eyes on the road and be aware of other drivers, particularly since there will be some newly-licensed drivers in the coming months.

The school year also means the buses will be a more common part of the traffic. Buses are equipped with amber and red lights to notify drivers when they’re slowing and stopping, as well as an extendable stop arm. This stop sign applies to both sides of the street, not just the side the bus is on. If it’s eastbound, the stop sign applies to both east and westbound traffic. Drivers must stop from both directions until the bus is moving again or the flashing red lights are no longer active.

The red lights don’t immediately turn on when a bus stops, and the amber lights will flash before the red. Those who choose to not stop when the stop arm is extended — whether they are passing around a bus or coming from the opposite direction — could face fines of $400 or more. And just because you’re not stopped immediately, don’t think you’re getting away with it as buses are equipped with cameras and offenders can be prosecuted after the fact.

Those who would like to meet the bus drivers can come to the bus garage at 704 Springview on Aug. 16 from 5-7 p.m. for the transportation carnival.

A new school year means the signs and flashing lights designating school zones will once again be active, and crossing guards will be out. The signs are easily spotted, and keep in mind the guards are there not to try and catch anyone, but to enforce the lower speeds and keep our kids safe. Some might be inclined to grumble if they happen to get a cautionary look or finger waved in their direction from the guards, but they want to make sure everyone gets where they’re going safely.

For parents who transport their kids, make sure your students and their schools know where and when you will be dropping them off. If there are any changes, make sure to communicate those so there is no confusion and students aren’t left waiting or getting in strange vehicles.

Though much of the responsibility of having a safe school year goes to the drivers, those on foot also have responsibilities. Be sure cross only at designated crosswalks, and only when it’s safe to cross. Though crossing guards can use their signs to stop traffic, they can’t cover every intersection. Never assume any vehicle that is still moving will eventually stop for you; be sure it has come to a complete stop and the driver has indicated he or she is waiting for you to cross.

Being aware of traffic flows into and out of the schools can help make the 2019-20 school year safe and successful.

 

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