​Back To School: Mercer Co. Sheriff Shares Safety Tips For Students, Parents, and Drivers​

MERCER COUNTY, NJ – Thousands of students, teachers, and staff will be heading back to classrooms and schools across Mercer County after summer vacation.

During school hours, traffic on the streets will be at a higher volume, and Mercer County Sheriff Jack Kemler is reminding motorists and pedestrians to be extra careful as the new school year begins.

The Sheriff also asks students and parents to be extra cautious and alert when walking or driving to and from school.

"As summer wraps up and children return to school, life can get hectic really fast. With everyone rushing to get out of the house and get to school before the bell rings, it’s important to keep in mind some basic safety tips. These tips will help ensure that everyone stays safe and healthy throughout the school year," Kemler said.

To help ensure a safe environment for everyone, here are a few safety reminders from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office:

• 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 more easily - especially at dusk.

• Remember, as autumn approaches, there is less daylight, and children will be more difficult to see.

• Do not display your child's name on their backpack, as it makes them vulnerable to predators who might call out their name to gain trust and lure them away. Put their name on the inside.

• 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, use intersections with crossing guards and crosswalks.

• 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 the school as possible and always buckle up.

• Make it a habit to drive slowly when you see children running or walking near the curb.

• Always SLOW DOWN around school zones and bus stops. Watch your speed when entering or leaving designated school areas.

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