Mercer County Sheriff Provides Back to School Traffic Safety Tips

Mercer County Sheriff Jack Kemler offered the following traffic safety advice for parents and students as they prepare to go back to school later this week.

• Pay special attention to the instructions of school crossing guards and adhere to traffic signals.
• Never cross the street against a red light, even if you do not see any traffic coming.
• Wear bright colors or reflective clothing so drivers can see you easier - especially at dusk.
• Remember, as autumn approaches, there is less daylight and children will be more 
difficult to see.
• Parents should always plan a safe walking route for their children to and from school or 
to the bus stop. Choose a route with the fewest street crossings and if possible, with 
intersections that have crossing guards and cross walks.
• Drivers MUST come to a complete stop when the red lights on a school bus are flashing 
– it is the law!
• When driving children to school, deliver and pick them up as near to the school as 
possible. Do not leave until you see they are safely on school grounds or clear of local 
traffic.
• Drive slowly when you see children riding bicycles or walking near the curb.
• Always SLOWDOWN around schools and bus stops. Watch your speed when entering or leaving designated school zones.

“The Mercer County Sheriff’s Patrol Units work diligently with local towns and municipalities to maintain public safety. They serve as an added component of law enforcement to help keep our communities safe,” Kemler said. “The Sheriff’s Office resources are available to assist anywhere in Mercer County on a moment’s notice.”

Students in Lawerenceville return to class on Thursday.