As our little ones head back to school, Broome County Sheriff, David Harder is reminding parents, commuters, kids and teens to do everything possible to make safety a priority.

 

  • 1

    Know New York's School Bus Law

    In New York State, it's illegal to pass a stopped school bus when the large red lights are flashing, even on divided and multi-lane highways and school grounds. According to the law, you must stop whether you're approaching the school bus from the front or the rear.

  • 2

    Drive Safely

    You should always drive safely, but especially so in school zones. Obey the signs, signals and crossing guards. Slow down, especially around school bus stops, and in school zones at all hours. Be on the lookout for pedestrians and people on bikes, especially before and after school.

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    Tips for Walkers

    If you have kids who walk to and from school, remind them to walk on the sidewalk if there is one and if there isn't a sidewalk, they should walk facing oncoming traffic. They need to know to pay attention to traffic and avoid texting, talking on the phone and using headphones. Be sure they know to look left, right and then left again before crossing the street. They should never cross the street while using an electronic device and should only cross at crosswalks.

  • 4

    Bus Stop Tips

    Please remind your kids that they need to stay three giant steps (six feet) away from the curb while waiting for the bus; and they should wait until the driver tells them it's okay to board. Kids should also know to quickly get onthe bus, find a seat and sit facing the front. When it's time for them to get off the bus, they should wait for the driver to signal that it's safe to cross and then they should cross at least five giant steps (10 feet) away from the front of the bus. Look left-right-left for traffic before crossing.

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