Volusia County, FL-With the first day of school starting today in Volusia and Flagler, law enforcement and the school districts are getting back in the back-to-school routine with some safety tips and reminders for the coming year. The roads and sidewalks in your area may be much busier than they have been over the summer. A moment’s distraction or inattention on the part of a driver or a pedestrian can cause a tragedy. That’s why VCSO always stresses the importance of extra vigilance and alertness when the school year rolls around. “We want every student in Volusia County to have a successful and rewarding school year,” Sheriff Ben Johnson said. “And we want them to be safe getting to and from school. That’s why we’re asking students, their parents and the general public to be mindful of their surroundings and follow our tips to prevent a tragic accident.”
As usual, the Sheriff’s Office is increasing its citizen patrol hours to coincide with the new school year. Volunteers in marked COP (Citizen On Patrol) units will be patrolling early near schools, at bus stops and along the routes children take to school. Deputies will be increasing traffic enforcement in an effort to prevent speeding, passing stopped school buses and crosswalk violations. Whether a student is walking, riding a bike, taking the bus or catching a ride to school, the Sheriff’s Office is urging parents to find time over the next few days to stress the importance of safety issues with their children and help them become familiar with the safest route to school.
Everyone is reminded to please put away phones, iPods, gaming devices and other electronics to cut down on distractions. Don’t text and drive if you’re in a vehicle and don’t do it even if you’re on a bike or on foot. This year, the Florida Sheriff’s Task Force is launching Operation Safe Schools to protect Florida’s youth and focus on safety in school zones. Sheriff’s offices statewide will be asked to report the number of warnings, citations and even arrests from traffic infractions in area school zones, said Sgt. David Williams, traffic supervisor for the FCSO.
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