Guest commentary: Make new school year safe, successful
With summer drawn to a close and our students returned to school, I would like to remind everyone that back-to-school safety is a responsibility we all share.
The beginning of the school year brings more activity to our roadways, including school buses, parents dropping off and picking up children, and students walking or biking to school. Please allow yourself a little extra time, remain attentive, and use patience and courtesy as everyone settles back into the school-day routine.
Drivers should be especially mindful of the reduced speed limits in the school zone on Sanibel-Captiva Road. The automated speed enforcement system will be active during designated school hours to help protect students, families and school staff.
Motorists must also stop for school buses when their red warning lights are flashing and stop arms are extended, and should never attempt to pass a stopped school bus when prohibited. These precautions are simple, but they can prevent a tragedy.
The safety of our children depends on each of us making responsible choices behind the wheel. Please stay alert, avoid distractions, watch for children near roadways and crosswalks, and remember to “Slow Down Sanibel.”
Together, we can help make the new school year safe and successful for everyone.
William Dalton is police chief for the Sanibel Police Department. For more information, visit https://www.mysanibel.com/283/Police.