"Slow down:" When the school buses roll, motorists everywhere urged to drive safe

MILWAUKEE -- Thousands of students will hop on buses and cross streets when school begins on Tuesday, September 1st. Just as students get back into their school routines, drivers everywhere need to get back into their safe-driving routines too.

For the past two years, Charles Fells has been a school crossing guard -- and he's looking forward to the start of the school year.

"They are glad to see me come," said Fells.

While students and parents are glad to see him helping protect kids, safety specialist senior Lishunda Patterson says drivers need to do their part when it comes to pedestrian safety.

"We try to alert drivers to drive more cautiously and drive at least 15 mph in any school zone area unless otherwise posted," said Patterson.

While there will be about 200 crossing guards out assisting, students are encouraged to be prudent.

"We try to encourage all the students under the age of 11 to always walk with someone older," said Patterson. "Stop at the corner look right and left then cross the school cautiously."

Meanwhile, drivers are also urged to be watchful of buses as well.

"We ask that driver once you see those flashing lights on the back of buses or if you see the arm out for drivers to stop. we never know if kids are trying to cross  in front of the bus or trying to get on the bus," said Patterson.

For Fells, the main challenge is distracted drivers.

"Mostly because they are on the cell phones and texting," said Fells.

Fells' advice -- give yourself extra travel time, keep your eyes on the road, and...

"Slow down, slow down," said Fells.

To make sure the traffic and crossing rules and laws are enforced, a few dozen officers have been assigned to go back on school detail.

The following bus companies service MPS.  You may contact any of the following bus companies directly.