HOULTON, Maine — The Houlton Police Department is reminding motorists to use extra caution now that school is back in session.
Students from RSU 29, SAD 70, Greater Houlton Christian Academy, Southern Aroostook Community School and Katahdin all returned to classes Tuesday morning, which meant more people driving their children to school and a greater number of youngsters walking to school.
“The Houlton Police Department is on increased patrols in our school zones, side roads and residential neighborhoods to insure the safety of our children,” Houlton Police Chief Tim DeLuca said. “At this time, school zones are being reviewed and expanded within the maximum limits provided by law. Speed limit signs are being installed and reminders being posted.”
Houlton police officers will be assigned specifically to the areas during “prime time,” before school starts and once it lets out for the day.
Kayleigh Goodall and her father Dustin pause for a moment before entering Houlton Elementary School Tuesday morning for the first day of school. (Joseph Cyr)
Motorists also are reminded that passing a stopped school bus while its lights are flashing is a crime. According to Maine law, “a school bus operator shall activate flashing lights at least 100 feet before a stop is made to receive or discharge passengers. These lights must be continually displayed until after the bus has received or discharged passengers.”
Those violating this law may be fined by a $250 minimum fine for the first offense and a mandatory 30-day suspension of a driver’s license for a second offense occurring within three years of the first offense, according to Maine law.
“It’s also important to understand that these streets are residential 24-7, year round and school activities often expand beyond the standard school hours,” Chief DeLuca said. “I would like to thank the public for their awareness and diligence in assuring the safety of our children.”
