All drivers will soon see school zones filling up with children returning to school. Now is a good time to cover some quick safety reminders as our children, grandchildren, and family friends return to school.

• Slow down. Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks available for the children to use. Many of the speed limit zones haven’t been in effect or enforced for the last couple months; this is changing. 

• Be alert for those who are not. Watch for children who may not be paying attention to their surroundings.

• Keep your eyes moving. Watch for children playing and congregating near bus stops.

You'll also see school buses along residential streets. Remember the flashing signal systems that buses use to alert others of their actions:

• Yellow flashing lights alert others that the bus is preparing to stop, load, or unload children. Drivers should slow down and prepare to stop.

• Red flashing lights and extended stop-arms indicate the bus has stopped and children are loading or unloading. Stop and wait until the red light stops flashing, the extended stop-arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving.

• School bus signals must be observed in both lanes of traffic.

Slower is always safer.

Be aware. Stay alert. Keep kids safe.