AUBURN, ME – As summer winds down and students prepare to return to the classroom, the Auburn Police Department is reminding families, motorists, and community members to take extra care on the roads to help ensure a safe start to the school year.

STAY ALERT IN SCHOOL ZONES & NEIGHBORHOODS

With more children walking, biking, and waiting for buses, drivers are urged to slow down and stay alert – especially in residential neighborhoods and school zones. Take the time to look for children at intersections, crosswalks, medians, and curbs. Enter and exit driveways carefully, and watch for kids traveling to and from school during morning and afternoon hours.

Drivers should also reduce distractions inside their vehicles. Staying focused on the road – and never talking or texting while driving – helps keep everyone safer.

A COMMUNITY APPROACH TO SAFETY

As students head back to school, Auburn Police Chief Jason Moen says officers will be paying close attention to traffic and pedestrian activity in and around school zones.

“Back-to-school is an exciting time for students and families, and we want everyone to start the year safely,” said Moen. “Our officers will be out in school zones, but keeping kids safe is something we all share responsibility for. Slow down, put the phone away, watch for pedestrians, and always stop for school buses. A little extra patience and attention can make a big difference. When parents, students, motorists, and police all do their part, we create safer streets and help make sure everyone gets to school – and back home – safely.”

SAFETY TIPS FOR STUDENTS & FAMILIES

While riding the school bus:

Wait for the bus to stop completely before approaching.

Look for traffic before crossing the street.

Make sure you stay in the driver’s line of sight.

Follow all directions from crossing guards.

Always board and exit the bus at safe, designated locations.

When biking to/from school:

Always wear a helmet—every ride, every time.

Ride on the right, following traffic.

Stop at lights and stop signs.

Wear bright, visible clothing.

Know and follow the rules of the road.

For children walking to school:

Choose a safe route with trained crossing guards at each intersection. Consider your child’s age and maturity – young children can be unpredictable around traffic and may not be ready to walk alone. If your child is attending a new school, plan to walk the route with them during the first week to build confidence and ensure they know it well. Brightly?colored clothing helps children stay visible to drivers.

WORKING TOGETHER FOR A SAFE SCHOOL YEAR

The Auburn Police Department encourages parents, guardians, and all residents to make back?to?school safety a priority.

“Our goal is simple: we want every child in Auburn to start the school year safely and successfully,” added Moen. “That means slowing down, staying alert, and following school-zone speed limits. If we all give a little extra attention and patience, we can help make sure our students get where they’re going safely every day.”