Polk County Sheriff Discusses School Safety for Students and Parents

By: Mary Balstad marybalstad@rjbroadcasting.com

Polk County, MN – Labor Day has come and gone, which means classes have begun for many schools across Minnesota. In turn, the amount of vehicles on the roads will pick up in both urban and rural areas as students make their way to and from school. Polk County Sheriff Jim Tadman spoke about the importance of staying vigilant around school buses for both students and parents as classes and after school activities cause an increase in traffic. Tadman reminds students to keep a distance from buses and not to approach until it come to a full stop.

Drivers should also take care when approaching a bus. The Department of Public Safety has helpful tips on their website at dps.mn.gov regarding school bus safety tips for both children and motorists. Tadman echoes these tips, as more children can be harmed outside the bus in what is referred to as the “Danger Zone” due to motorists not obeying the rules of the road around school buses.

Other reminders for children taking the school bus for school or activities is to remain seated, use quiet voices, and listen to the bus driver. Tadman finishes the topic with a piece of advice for listeners. “If somebody sees something unsafe, say something and work with the schools. They’re out there to make sure the kids arrive and leave the school safe.”