Police: Slow down when children are present

FINDLAY —As warmer weather brings more people outdoors, Findlay police are reminding drivers to watch for pedestrians, especially in and around school zones. Lt. David Hill of the Findlay Police Department's Patrol Division said motorists should be alert to children near roadways. "(It's) very important for drivers to be on the lookout when driving near school zones," he said. Hill noted that children can dart into the street without warning, may not check for oncoming traffic and do not always use crosswalks. Findlay Crime Prevention Officer Brian White said educating drivers about school zone safety remains a priority. "We need to remind new drivers to slow down and we need to remind students to pay attention," White said. Hill echoed that message, urging students not to walk while distracted by phones or gaming devices. White said education, reminders and enforcement continue to have the most immediate impact on student safety. Traffic congestion around schools is also a concern, Hill said. During peak drop-off and pick-up times, frustration can rise and mistakes can happen. During those same time periods, officers have issued more than 80 citations or warnings for traffic violations, according to statistics provided by Hill. "In looking at the accidents we've responded to in the vicinity of schools, I would say the area around FHS (Findlay High School) to be our largest area for accidents," Hill said. "However, out of the 900 accidents that have been reported since the start of the school year, less than 5% have been in school zone areas." Police have issued seven citations so far this year to drivers who passed stopped school buses. "In Ohio, it's illegal to pass a stopped school bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended," Hill said. "Drivers must stop at least 10 feet away from a school bus when flashing red lights and an extended stop sign, whether approaching from the front or the rear." Hill also reminded drivers that school zones are active anytime children are present, not just before or after school. White said that if motorists are unsure whether a school zone is active, they should simply slow down. Over the years roadway markings, signage and public education efforts have improved in Findlay and across Hancock County. Still, White said one factor remains beyond law enforcement's control: the decisions drivers make behind the wheel. While officers can enforce the law and the city can improve infrastructure, student safety ultimately depends on drivers choosing to stay alert and use caution anytime children or other pedestrians are present, especially around schools.