Northport Police Reminds Drivers To Be Cautious During School Year

In preparation for the start of the school year, the Northport Police Department is once again launching a program to remind drivers to be cautious behind the wheel as children end their summer vacation.

Small people with backpacks will soon cross the streets near you, oftentimes without regards to traffic laws, so it’s important for drivers to keep their speed below posted limits and be ready to stop for school buses. It is required by New York State law for drivers on both sides of the street to stop for school buses with flashing red lights.

Thousands of posters, bumper stickers and other educational materials are distributed through the program. Since the program’s inception in 1945, it has helped prevent injuries and deaths among elementary school- age children.

AAA Northeast’s 72st Annual “School’s Open - Drive Carefully” program is conducted with local government and police agencies. Police Officer Michael Gigante joined local school students to help AAA kickoff the program.

“The help we get from police departments in our territory adds to the effectiveness of our ‘School’s Open’ campaign” Donna Galasso, Assistant Director of AAA’s Traffic Safety unit, said in a press release. “We appreciate the efforts of Chief Bill Ricca, Police Officer Michael Gigante and the Northport Police Department, which helps to increase safety for all students.”

Photo by AAA Northeast 2017: Police Officer Michael Gigante and AAA Northeast Traffic Safety Program Specialist Gerri DiSalvo launched AAA’s “School’s Open — Drive Carefully” campaign at police headquarters in Northport. Also participating in the campaign were locals students Anna Gigante (left to right), Michael, Nicholas and Thomas Gigante.