Westport schools reopen on Tuesday. (No, you’re not imagining things. Yeah, it’s pretty early.)
So even though the fireworks were, like, 3 days ago, students may have forgotten some basic rules of the road.
And (ahem) parents too.
The Westport Police Department has already begun targeting traffic violators in school zones, with their annual “Back to School” enforcement and education campaign.
They’ll keep doing it. Officers will watch for distracted drivers and speeding in school zones. They’ll also monitor bus stops and routes, citing people who disregard school bus signals.
This bus driver makes sure no one passes illegally. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)
Police suggest commuters allow extra time. School buses will be on the roads, making (very) frequent stops. There will be children walking and on bikes too (including those powered by more than feet).
The WPD offers these specific tips:
Drivers
- Watch out for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks in the neighborhood.
- Be alert! Children arriving late for the bus may dart into the street without looking for traffic.
- Yellow flashing lights indicate that the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Slow down, and prepare to stop.
- Red flashing lights and extended stop arms mean that children are getting on or Motorists on both sides of the roadway must stop, and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop sign is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving before starting to drive. (“06880: adds: Violators face big fines. Deservedly so.)
No matter who — or what — is crossing, STOP when you see the school bus’ flashing lights! (Photo/Paul Delano)
Children
- Get to the bus stop at least 5 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
- Stand at least 6 feet from the curb, and line up away from the street.
- If you must cross the street in front of the bus, walk on the sidewalk or along the side of the road to at least 10 feet ahead of the bus before you cross. Be sure the bus driver can see you, and you can see the bus driver.
- Getting off the bus, be sure that clothing with drawstrings and book bags with straps are not caught in the handrails or doors.
- Never walk behind the bus.
- Walk at least 6 feet away from the side of the bus.
- If you drop something near the bus, tell the driver, since he or she may not clearly see you.
- Listen to crossing guards!
To students and drivers alike: Slow down!
A few extra seconds of patience can make the difference between a safe arrival and a tragedy.
Kings Highway scene will be repeated at every Westport school. (Photo/Nicola Sharian)
(“06880” looks out for everyone in Westport. We hope you look out for us too. Please click here to support this hyper-local blog, with a tax-deductible donation. Thank you!)