Summit Police Highlight Safety Around Schools, Ways For Pedestrians To Stay Alert

SUMMIT, NJ - The Summit Police Department is getting parents and students ready with safety tips for the new school year that begins Sept. 2.

Officers will have a presence at all of Summit's public schools on the first day and during the first few weeks to help encourage a safe environment both inside, and outside, of the buildings. This includes monitoring safety of drivers and bicyclists coming to and from school grounds.

“Pedestrian safety is always a priority for Summit Police, but it’s particularly important during back to school when children may be distracted by the excitement of seeing friends and meeting new teachers,” points out Summit Police Lt. Charlie Daly. “Across the United States, thousands of children are injured in collisions with motor vehicles each year. Drivers are encouraged to leave plenty of time for travel and pay close attention to the road when driving especially in school zones.”

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The City of Summit is encouraging residents to:

"• Look all ways before crossing the street.
• Look up from your phone to ensure you can safely cross the street.
• Cross only at corners and use crosswalks.
• Obey police officers, school crossing guards, and traffic signals.
• Watch for turning cars and distracted drivers.
• Be particularly alert in bad weather.
• Do not run or play near motor vehicle traffic.
• Walk in groups to and from school.
• If you notice something dangerous, report it to an adult.
• If riding a bicycle, wear a helmet and follow the rules of the road. (Go to
cityofsummit.org/bikesafety to review the new rules for riding e-bikes and e-scooters in town)."

Earlier this month, a new crosswalk was installed at Morris Ave. and Butler Pkwy, just steps away from Washington Elementary School in further efforts to encourage safety in areas with high foot traffic. Along with the school, athletes cross the roadway frequently to access Tatlock Field.

These safety tips from Summit authorities come just days after a 77-year-old woman in Cranford was hit by a vehicle while walking in the crosswalk along Lincoln Ave. and High St. on Aug. 19. Read more