‘Slow down, drive safe’: Officials offer some safety tips as students head back to class

HAMPDEN, Maine (WABI) - As students and teachers head back to the classroom, officials want to remind folks that safety comes first.

“We do get a lot of complaints for speeding and folks passing a stopped school bus. That is an ongoing issue each year,” said Officer Katherine Dyment of the Hampden Police Department.

Dyment serves as the School Resource Officer at Hampden Academy.

She urges drivers to stop for school buses when the red lights are flashing, or the stop-arm is extended.

“Be cautious when you see the lights flashing. Just know as the buses are flashing yellow, slow down, watch out, and then as soon as they turn red, you need to come to a complete stop,” she said.

Passing a stopped school bus is illegal and can result in a hefty fine, license suspension, or even jail.

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