Staying safe as schools reopen this week

With schools now open, Nassau County police have several safety tips for motorists and student passengers.

Be aware it is illegal in every state to pass a school bus stopped to load/unload students. Know the “flashing signal light system” that school bus drivers use to alert motorists if they are going to stop to load/unload students.

Yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Motorists should slow down and prepare to stop their vehicles. Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate that the bus has stopped, and that children are getting on or off. Motorists must stop their cars. Begin moving only when the red flashing lights are turned off, the stop arm is withdrawn and the bus begins to move.

If are convicted of failing to stop for a school bus the penalties could be: 5 points on your license. Fine of up to $400. $80-$85 surcharge. Up to 30 days in jail.

Getting on and off the school bus is dangerous. Pedestrian fatalities (while loading and unloading school buses) account for approximately three times as many school bus-related fatalities, when compared to school bus occupant fatalities.

Stand at least 10 feet away from the edge of the road. Wait until the bus stops, the door opens, and the driver says its OK before stepping onto the bus. See that clothing with drawstrings and book bags with straps or dangling objects don’t get caught in the handrail or door. Always sit fully in the seat and face forward. Never stand on a moving bus. Obey the driver.