As Salem students prepare to return to school, residents are reminded to use extra caution while traveling throughout the community. Increased pedestrian activity, school buses returning to the roads, and busy morning and afternoon commutes make everyone’s attention and cooperation especially important.

Pedestrian Safety

Students and families should always use designated crosswalks and look left, right, and left again before crossing the street. Avoid distractions such as cell phones and headphones while walking near traffic.

Children younger than 10 should cross streets with an adult whenever possible. Pedestrians should use sidewalks where available. When a sidewalk is not available, walk facing oncoming traffic.

Driver Safety

Drivers should obey posted speed limits, particularly in school zones and residential neighborhoods. Be prepared to stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights and extends its stop arm.

Watch carefully for children near schools, crosswalks, and bus stops. Drivers should eliminate distractions and allow additional travel time during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal.

Keeping Salem’s students, families, crossing guards, bus drivers, and school staff safe is a shared responsibility. A few extra moments of patience and attention can help prevent a tragedy.

On behalf of the Town of Salem, we wish all students, teachers, administrators, and school staff a safe, successful, and rewarding school year.