Westport Police Step Up School-Zone Enforcement As Students Prepare To Return

WESTPORT, CT — Westport police are increasing traffic enforcement around schools and bus routes ahead of the return of Westport Public Schools students on Tuesday, Aug. 25.

The Westport Police Department said officers have begun its annual back-to-school enforcement and education campaign, which focuses on traffic violations in school zones. Officers will watch for speeding and distracted driving and monitor school bus stops and routes for drivers who disregard bus signals.

Police are asking commuters to allow additional travel time as school buses return to the roads and more children walk or bike to school.

Drivers should slow down and remain alert around school zones, bus stops and school buses, police said. Under Connecticut school bus rules cited by the department, motorists should slow down and prepare to stop when a bus displays flashing yellow lights. Flashing red lights and an extended stop arm indicate that motorists on both sides of the road must stop and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving.

Police also offered the following safety guidance for drivers:

• Watch for children when driving in neighborhoods with school zones or backing into a roadway.
• Slow down and look for children walking in the street, particularly in areas without sidewalks.
• Be alert for children who may run into the street while trying to catch a bus.
• Learn and follow Connecticut's school bus laws.

The department also issued safety reminders for students who take the bus:

• Arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the scheduled arrival.
• Stay at least 6 feet from the curb while waiting for the bus.
• Wait for the bus to stop, the door to open and the driver to signal before boarding.
• When crossing in front of a bus, walk at least 10 feet ahead of it before crossing and make sure the driver can see you.
• Use handrails when boarding or leaving the bus, and make sure clothing drawstrings and backpack straps do not become caught in handrails or doors.
• Never walk behind a school bus and remain at least 6 feet from its side.
• Tell the driver before retrieving anything dropped near the bus.
• Follow instructions from school crossing guards and wait until they have stopped traffic and indicated that it is safe to cross.

Parents are encouraged to review the safety guidance with their children and with young or inexperienced drivers in their households.

As students return to Westport schools, police are asking motorists to slow down and watch for children walking or biking, school buses, crossing guards and increased pedestrian traffic.