Most public school systems open the new school year on Wednesday. That means drivers will once again be sharing the road with school busses. The laws of when you must stop for a bus are specific. If a bus stops on a two-lane road, with or without a median, all vehicles must also stop. On a four-lane highway with a traffic median, or a four-lane highway with a median separation, only traffic following the bus must stop.

For a visual of the law, click the link below.

The Rocky Mount Police Department has also released this comprehensive list of safety tips for parents.

-Use child safety seats and/or safety belts correctly every time you and your children ride. Remain buckled up until exiting the vehicle.

-Drop off children as close to school as possible so they do not have to cross the street. Make sure they enter and leave the car on the curbside. Follow school guidelines for the drop off and pick up of your children.

-Arrange to pick up children at a safe spot away from the congestion of cars around the school. Again, follow school guidelines.

-Allow extra time in your schedule to avoid driving too fast when late.

-Never put loose or heavy objects in the passenger area of the car that could injure someone if you stop suddenly.

-Be alert, and do not talk on the cell phone when driving.

Police also suggest you lock your doors and windows when taking the children to school, even if you will be coming home right away. Watch for strange people in your neighborhood, they say, and report them. Remember that burglars often strike when they believe houses are empty during the day.

When it comes to stranger danger, the Rocky Mount Police Department cautions against putting a child's name on anything that is too visible. That will give a stranger the ability to call your child by their first name, which could give your child a false sense of trust towards that person. Talk to your children about strangers and the ways they try to trick children. Also, remind your kids to never give the impression they are home alone to people who call or come to the door.