Bristol Police Launch Traffic Safety Program For Schools

BRISTOL, RI — With the start of school just a few days away, Bristol police have committed to helping make roads safe for students. The department is partnering with the state's Department of Transportation to raise awareness about traffic safety and help handle a projected increase in pedestrian and drop-off traffic due to decrease capacity on school buses.

Extra patrols will be stationed at and around schools, as well as the addition of another full time school resource officer. A three-pronged approach will help protect students at drop-offs, keep crosswalks safe and make sure drivers follow the rules at school bus stops, explained below.

• Bristol cares program: officers in "low-profile" cruisers will follow bus routes to make sure traffic stops as students leave busses.
• Crosswalks: Officers will be posted at crosswalks near schools to make sure drivers are stopping for pedestrians.
• Safe drop-offs: Officers will be posted at school entrances to help regulate traffic and help people crossing the street due to an expected increase in congestion.

"We wish for all students and parents to feel safe during these unprecedented times and hope that these programs will reduce any chance of harm to our student population," the department said in a statement.

The department provided a list of safety tips for walkers and drivers.

Walkers

• Only cross the street at marked crosswalks
• Wear bright clothing at dusk and dawn to increase visibility to drivers
• Watch for oncoming traffic
• Make eye contact with the driver before crossing the street

Drivers

• Obey posted speed limits, and slow down in inclement conditions, including poorly lit streets
• Check for pedestrians at intersections and mid-block crosswalks, and always yield to them
• Make eye contact with pedestrians who are waiting to cross the street
• Watch for children walking or biking to school when backing out of a driveway or garage
• Be extra aware of children walking in neighborhoods and school zones and at bus stops
• Be alert
• Learn and follow school bus laws
  • Yellow flashing lights: the bus is preparing to stop and load or unload students. Slow down and get ready to stop.
  • Red flashing lights: the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off. Drivers on both sides must stop until the lights turn off and the extended stop arm is withdrawn.