Chief David Hegermiller, left, and Sgt. Danielle Willsey of the Riverhead Police Department joined local school students, Nicholas Willsey, Evelyn Willsey, Clare Willsey and baby Allison Willsey to help launch AAA’s 73rd Annual “School’s Open – Drive Carefully” campaign at the Riverhead Police Department headquarters. Traffic Safety Program Specialist, Gerri DiSalvo, right, represented AAA. Courtesy photo: Riverhead Town Police
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AAA Northeast and Riverhead Town Police remind motorists to use extra caution behind the wheel as children return to school Sept. 5.

Drivers should be particularly cautious in school areas, keeping their speed at or below posted limits and being prepared to stop — on both sides of the street — for school buses with flashing red lights, as required by New York State law, Riverhead Police said in a press release.

AAA’s annual “School’s Open – Drive Carefully” campaign — now in its 73rd year — is conducted with local government and police agencies.

“The help we get from police departments in our territory adds to the effectiveness of our ‘School’s Open’ campaign” said Donna Galasso, assistant director of AAA’s Traffic Safety unit. “We appreciate the efforts of Chief Hegermiller and the entire Riverhead Police Department which helps to increase safety for all students,” Galasso said.

Thousands of posters, bumper stickers and other educational materials are distributed through the program.

AAA New York State’s “School’s Open – Drive Carefully” program began in 1945. Since then, it has helped to prevent injuries and deaths among children of elementary school age.

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