As students across Becker County return to school, Sheriff Todd Glander of the Becker County Sheriff’s Office urges the community to prioritize safety, particularly in school zones. In his latest letter to the community, posted on the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, Sheriff Glander provides important reminders and safety tips to ensure a safe environment for all students, whether walking, biking, or riding the bus to school.
**Key Safety Reminders from Sheriff Glander:**
- **Slow Down in School Zones**: Drivers are reminded to slow down and adhere to posted speed limits, especially in designated school zones where children are likely to be crossing streets.
- **Follow School Procedures**: Parents and guardians should follow their school’s specific drop-off and pick-up procedures to minimize congestion and enhance safety around school premises.
- **Stop for School Buses**: It is crucial to stop for school buses when they are picking up or dropping off students. Minnesota law requires drivers to stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus with a stop arm extended and flashing red lights. This rule applies to vehicles in both directions on roads without a median or center turn lane.
- **Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists**: Parents are encouraged to teach their children safe practices, such as looking both ways before crossing the street and using sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- **Avoid Blocking Crosswalks**: Drivers should avoid stopping in crosswalks, especially when making turns, to ensure safe passage for pedestrians.
Sheriff Glander emphasized the importance of these safety measures in his letter, noting that “the safety of our children is a top priority as they head back to school.” He encourages all drivers to remain vigilant and exercise caution to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth transition into the new school year.
For more detailed information on school bus safety and additional tips, the Sheriff’s Office recommends visiting the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s School Bus Safety page at [dps.mn.gov](https://dps.mn.gov/).
Stay safe, and let’s work together to make this school year a safe and successful one for all Becker County students!