As students return to classrooms across Texas, the Texas Department of Public Safety is reminding drivers and families to take extra precautions to help keep children safe during the new school year.
The agency is urging motorists to slow down in school zones, watch for students walking or riding bicycles, obey crossing guards and stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights, as required by Texas law.
'As students head back to school, we're asking every driver to make safety their top priority,' Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee said in a news release. 'Slow down, eliminate distractions and remain alert—especially in school zones, at bus stops and in high-volume traffic areas.'
DPS also encouraged parents to make sure schools have current emergency contact information, discuss emergency procedures with their children and familiarize themselves with campus safety policies.
The agency recommends parents keep a current photo of their child on a mobile device, identify trusted adults at school and regularly talk with children about personal safety and situational awareness.
DPS also highlighted several statewide safety resources, including the iWatchTexas program, which allows people to confidentially report suspicious activity through a mobile app, website or by calling 844-643-2251. The agency emphasized that emergencies should still be reported by calling 911.
The Texas School Safety Center also provides school safety training, resources and technical assistance for schools, parents and communities.
DPS noted that the state's Active Shooter Alert System can notify people near an active shooter situation through cell phones, broadcast media and Texas Department of Transportation message signs when specific criteria are met.
The agency also offers school presentations on topics including traffic safety, drug prevention, underage drinking and situational awareness through its Safety Education Service.
.png)
