State Police Share Back to School Safety Tips and Tricks

Source: Indiana Criminal Justice Institute

STATEWIDE –Kids have either returned to school in Indiana or are about to go back to school this week depending on the school district. That means you need to watch out for school buses and their stop arms.

“If you’re ever in doubt whether not you should stop, then stop. The only time you don’t have to stop for a school bus that’s loading or unloading is if the school bus is going the opposite direction and is divided by a physical barrier. If it’s multiple lanes, but there’s no physical barrier in the middle of the road, you have to stop in the opposite direction,” said Indiana State Police Sergeant John Perrine Monday morning.

He also wants to remind you that if you pass a school bus that has its stop arm out with its red lights flashing, then you can be charged with a misdemeanor.

“It could result in jail time, so it’s something that people need to be aware of. Also be aware that many school buses in Indiana are now equipped with stop arm cameras. We’re having successful prosecutions of people who are running stop arms when police officers aren’t even present,” said Perrine.

Perrine says you need to remember that kids are often unpredictable, especially the younger they are.

“They do unexpected things, so make sure you focus on driving and safety so you can watch the road. A child could easily jump out when you least expect it and not be paying attention when they do. Slow down and watch for children walking in the street, especially where there are no sidewalks.

Be mindful of children playing and gathering near bus stops,” said Perrine.

If you are a parent, Perrine says it’s best to remember that safety often starts at the bus stop. He offers the following tips on that front:

-Ensure your child arrives at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.

-Show your child where to wait for the bus: at least three giant steps (six feet) away from the curb.

-Remind your child that the bus stop is not a place to run or play.

You can hear the full conversation with Perrine below.

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