New Milford students return to class on Tuesday August 27th.  New Milford Police say they will have officers out in force before and after the school day to strictly enforce the rules of the roads.  With school buses back on their routes, police are reminding drivers to stop for flashing lights and to not pass stopped buses.

The first day of school for many other students in the Greater Danbury area is next week and Brookfield Volunteer Fire Company is reminding motorists about school bus laws and safety.  Drivers following or approaching a bus should stop 10 to 20 feet from it when it’s red lights are flashing. 

Motorists should not pass a bus until the lights are off.  Drivers should keep an eye out for children crossing in front of the bus and potentially after the bus drives away. 

Fines for passing a school bus that has its flashing red warning lights activated starts at $465 for a first offense. Repeat offenders will have another fine of $500 to $1,000 and face up to 30 days in jail.