SCHOOL ZONE AND BUS SAFETY REMINDERS
As the school year begins, we encourage all motorists to be mindful of school zones, school buses, and the increased presence of children and pedestrians on our roads.
After several months without school bus drop-offs and pick-ups, drivers may become accustomed to new traffic patterns and need to adjust their driving habits as students return to school.
The safety of our children is a top priority. New Castle Police Officers will be out throughout the Town monitoring school zones and enforcing traffic laws to help ensure a safe start to the school year.
Tips for Drivers
- Follow the Speed Limit – Slow Down. Reduced speed limits are in effect in designated school zones. Slowing down reduces the likelihood and severity of crashes and gives drivers more time to react to unexpected hazards.
- Allow Extra Time. Expect increased traffic, school buses, and pedestrians, along with changing traffic patterns. Give yourself additional time to reach your destination, particularly during morning drop-off and afternoon dismissal.
- Stay Alert. Pay attention to school bus stops, children walking or bicycling to school, crossing guards, and increased pedestrian activity. Be prepared to stop.
- Stop for School Buses. When a school bus is stopped with its red lights flashing, stop and remain stopped as required by law. Never pass a stopped school bus when its red lights are flashing, regardless of which direction you are traveling.
- Yield to Pedestrians. Always be alert for pedestrians and yield the right-of-way when required. Children may not always recognize or react appropriately to approaching vehicles.
- Watch for Crossing Guards. Slow down and obey the directions of crossing guards and school safety personnel.
- Expect Frequent Bus Stops. School buses make frequent stops, and children may be present near the roadway. When approaching a stopped bus, slow down, remain alert, and be prepared to stop.
- Talk with Teen Drivers. Remind young drivers to slow down, eliminate distractions, and be especially cautious in and around school zones.
- Use a “What If?” Strategy. Ask yourself: What if a child suddenly enters the roadway? What if the vehicle ahead stops suddenly? Anticipating potential hazards can help keep you alert and prepared to react.
Tips for Parents
- Help your children learn and practice safety rules for walking, bicycling, riding in a vehicle, and riding the school bus.
- Supervise young children as they walk or bike to school and while they wait at the bus stop.
- Be a good role model. Always buckle up, follow traffic laws, use crosswalks, and practice safe pedestrian and bicycling.
Tips for Students
- Always buckle up when riding in a vehicle.
- Children should ride in the back seat whenever possible, as it is the safest place for young passengers.
- Always wear a properly fitted helmet when riding a bicycle and follow all traffic safety rules.
- If you ride a school bus, learn and follow the safety rules for waiting at the bus stop, boarding and exiting the bus, and riding safely.
- If you walk to school, use crosswalks, obey traffic signals and signs, and follow the instructions of crossing guards and school safety personnel.
- Be a good role model for younger children and friends by practicing safe habits.
Slow Down. Stay Alert. Keep Our Children Safe.
James D. Carroll
Chief of Police
