With most schools opening Monday, drivers will have to navigate with approximately 5,500 yellow school buses on the road again in Arkansas. In an effort to ensure the safety of the about 250,000 students who will be riding these buses, state officials have begun the “Flashing Red. Kids Ahead.” campaign to remind drivers to be careful around school buses.
Kimberly Friedman, spokeswoman for the Arkansas Department of Education, says with the help of the Arkansas Association of People Transportation and the Arkansas PTA, the state is working to make sure drivers are prepared for the upcoming changes in traffic.
“There are just so many people who are illegally passing a stopped school bus,” says Friedman, “And so we just want to encourage people that as they begin to share the roadways, to be extra mindful of the buses; whenever they’re leaving home to allow extra time for their morning and afternoon commutes, and also just to be sure to watch out for the kids.”
Though many experienced drivers simply need a reminder to add a few minutes to their normal commute, there will also be new drivers on the road heading to school. Friedman says it’s important for these drivers to remember bus safety laws, as well.
“There are a lot of new drivers this school year who will be driving themselves, so we just want to encourage parents to really have some discussions with their children… to encourage them to be aware of the yellow buses. It is illegal to pass a stopped school bus when its red lights are flashing, and it’s a good slogan to remember: Flashing Red. Kids Ahead,” says Friedman.
The campaign lasts until August 26. Friedman says anyone can be involved simply by using “#2016FlashingRed” hash tag on social media or by emailing pictures and links to ade.communications@arkansas.gov.