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Westport Police Offer Back-To-School Safety Tips

WESTPORT, Conn. -- With the Westport school year beginning Aug. 27, the Westport Police Department is increasing its enforcement efforts against traffic violators in school zones.

Photo Credit: File
Robert Berczuk

The department's enforcement and education campaign is focusing on traffic safety in and around the school zones, according to a press release.

Westport officers will be targeting drivers who are using cell phones and speeding in school zones, as well as disregarding school bus signals, according to a press release.

“During this time of year, the Westport Police Department focuses on protecting children from motorists who disregard the law, especially around school zones and bus stops where they congregate” Capt. Sam Arciola said in a press release. “The long summer break has allowed drivers to forget that they will soon be sharing the roads with school buses making frequent stops, as well as children who will be walking or riding bicycles to school. As a community we have a responsibility to make sure children’s travel to and from school is as safe as possible.”

The department is offering the following list of suggestions for drivers, students and parents:

  • When backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, watch out for children walking or bicycling to school.
  • When driving in neighborhoods with school zones, watch for young people who may be thinking about getting to school, but may not be thinking of getting there safely.
  • Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks in neighborhood.
  • Watch for children playing and congregating near bus stops.
  • Be alert for children arriving late for the bus who may dart into the street with out looking for traffic.
  • Children should get to the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
  • Be sure the bus driver can see you, and you can see the bus driver.
  • When exiting the bus, be careful clothes with drawstrings, and book bags with straps don't get caught in the handrails or doors.
  • Never walk behind the bus, and walk at least three giant steps away from the side of the bus.
  • If you drop something near the bus, tell the driver. Never try to pick it up because the driver may not be able to see you.

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