New Safety Measures for School Crossing Guards in Mobile County

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Mobile County is stepping up safety for school crossing guards with an innovative new tool called “the pickle.”

This small device may not look like much, but it’s making a big impact by allowing Community Resource Officers (CROs) to control traffic lights at busy intersections without stepping into the road.

The Mobile Police Department, in partnership with the Alabama Department of Transportation, is rolling out this device to keep crossing guards safe and make school zones safer for everyone.

Traffic Control PicklePhoto bySkycraft Surplus

A Game-Changer for Crossing Guards

At schools like St. Ignatius Catholic School, where traffic can get hectic, the pickle is proving to be a game-changer.

With just one click of a button, the device changes the traffic pattern, giving CROs like Michelle Davis control from the safety of the sidewalk.

Davis, who has been with the Mobile Police Department since 2016, knows firsthand the dangers of directing traffic in busy school zones.

“I’ve had near incidents where cars almost hit me,” Davis recalled. The pickle allows her to manage traffic without the constant worry of being in harm’s way.

Keeping Guards Safe and Comfortable

Supervising CRO Amanda Lutman is thrilled with the new device, which she believes will make a tough job a little easier.

“It’s hard work being out here. It’s 80 degrees at 5 a.m.,” Lutman said.

The pickle allows guards to stay in the shade while still keeping a close eye on the traffic flow, reducing fatigue and increasing safety.

This added layer of protection means that crossing guards can focus more on the students and less on dodging traffic.

Adjusting to the Pickle

Drivers near schools like E.R. Dickson, BC Rain, and Causey Middle can expect to see the pickle in action during peak school hours.

While it’s a new system, everyone—guards, drivers, and parents—is adjusting to the change.

“I think they’re getting used to me being on the side now,” Davis noted, adding that the device has already made a noticeable difference in safety.

Do Your Part: Safe Driving in School Zones

As the pickle becomes a more common sight, drivers are reminded to stay vigilant in school zones.

This means staying off your phone, sticking to speed limits, and paying close attention to the crossing guards and their signals.

With everyone doing their part, school zones in Mobile County can be safer for both students and the dedicated officers who protect them.

The pickle might be a small device, but it’s playing a big role in making sure everyone gets to and from school safely.

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School crossing guards in Mobile County are using this new device to direct traffic