DUNKIRK, NY (WNY News Now) – Most schools in our region are opening their doors for the academic year this week, and while this is an exciting time it is important to remember that safety should be everyone’s priority.
This is why Dunkirk Police Chief David Ortolano is sharing some back-to-school safety tips to be aware of this fall.
The first of many tips Chief Ortolano shares is being aware of the speed limit in school zones. The speed limit is 15 MPH for all school areas with few exceptions being up to 20 MPH, so the chief warns drivers to pay attention to the signs and reminds motorists that the “few seconds it takes to slow down will not disrupt anyone’s day”. The chief adds that drivers should be cautious of students crossing the road and always remember to yield to stopped school buses.
A very strict warning goes out to motorists from the chief, that they must stop for school buses that have their red lights flashing. Vehicles cannot proceed past a bus until the red lights are no longer in operation. Ortolano warns that violations of this law will be strictly dealt with whether it be a heavy fine, jail time, or both.
Parents are also urged by officials to talk with their kids about “stranger danger” and warn them to never enter a vehicle with someone they don’t know. If your child has a cell-phone, Ortolano explains that it is important they know how and when to call 911 for help in an emergency.
In the end, Ortolano touts the importance of keeping students safe, stating “our priority will always be the safety of our children,”.
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