As the summer comes to a close, the West Virginia State Police is reminding the public that children will soon be returning back to school. As a precaution, the public is being asked to observe the posted speed limits in school zones (15mph) and allow more travel time in the mornings and afternoons as children travel to and from school.

Motorists should be aware of school buses and children walking through neighborhoods and are reminded that they are required to stop when a the red lights on the school bus are flashing while picking up and dropping off students.

The West Virginia State Police will have Troopers randomly patrolling various school zones during the peak commuting hours to help insure motorist’s compliance.

Motorists are also reminded that they must use a “hands free” device while talking on a cell phone and that texting while driving is illegal.

State Police say these violations will be strictly enforced in school zones throughout the year while schools are in session.