School bus safety reminders

As school buses return to our roads, so do early mornings, busy schedules, and drivers trying to get where they need to go. But when a school bus stops, nothing is more important than the child getting on or off.

Flashing yellow lights mean the bus is preparing to stop. Slow down and get ready to stop.

Flashing red lights mean STOP. Drivers approaching from either direction must stop at least 20 feet away and remain stopped until the red lights turn off or the bus begins moving.

The only exception is traffic traveling in the opposite direction on a highway divided by a median or other physical barrier. A painted centerline or turn lane does not count.

Please remember that children can be excited, distracted, or difficult to see. They may cross the road unexpectedly or drop something near the bus. Your patience could prevent a tragedy.

Bus drivers can report vehicles that illegally pass them. Wisconsin law may also hold the registered owner responsible, even if someone else was driving.

No appointment, deadline, or destination is worth risking a child’s life.

Slow down. Put the phone away. Watch for children. Stop for the red lights.

From the Dunn County Sheriff's Office Facebook page.