CONCORD — With the new school year underway, Chief Joseph O’Connor and the Concord Police Department would like to provide several important safety tips to community members.
The first day of school for Concord Public Schools is today, Aug. 28.
“As we welcome children back to school, we want to remind everyone, especially drivers, to please take caution around school zones and bus stops,” Chief O’Connor said. “We also encourage parents and guardians to review bus safety procedures with their children to ensure safe transport to and from school.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has several tips for motorists as the school year begins:
- Look for children walking or bicycling when backing out of a driveway or garage.
- Be vigilant and watch for children who may be walking or bicycling to school in neighborhoods with school zones.
- Watch out for children who may be crossing the street.
- Be mindful of children who may be standing in a group or playing near a bus stop.
Slow down. - Remember: yellow flashing lights signify that a bus is slowing down to either pick up or drop off children. Prepare to stop your vehicle.
- Remember: red flashing lights and extended stop arms signify that a bus has stopped to pick up or drop off children. Drivers traveling in both directions are required to stop their vehicles and wait until the lights stop flashing, the extended stop arm is withdrawn and the bus continues driving.
The Concord Police Department reminds drivers to stay off of all electronic devices while driving, as even a moment of distraction can cause a deadly crash. Drivers are also reminded to keep the windows of their vehicle clean and clear.
The NHTSA also has several tips for children and parents at bus stops:
- Arrive at the bus stop five minutes early, and wait approximately 6 feet away from the curb.
- Do not allow children to run or play at a bus stop.
- Wait until the bus stops completely, the door opens and the driver says it is safe to board the bus before getting on.
- Use the handrails on the bus while boarding.
- Do not walk behind a school bus.
- If a child drops an item near a school bus, he or she should first tell the bus driver about the dropped item.
- If a child needs to cross the street to board the bus, he or she should make eye contact with the driver, use the sidewalk until crossing, and walk approximately 10 feet in front of the bus.
Anyone with questions about road safety is encouraged to contact the Concord Police Department’s Safety Officer, Inspector Ron Holsinger at 978-318-3445 or rholsinger@concordma.gov
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