As part of a community outreach initiative, MDFR has partnered with MDSPD to introduce Operation School Zone, “Stop, Drop and Roll with a Twist.”

The first three mornings of the new school year, MDFR along with members of MDSPD and other agencies, will have emergency vehicles positioned at various elementary schools in an effort to deter speeding, heighten awareness of surroundings and educate the community on being careful around school zones.

“Our children are our future, and we must protect them,” said MDFR Assistant Fire Chief Arthur Holmes. “By working together with neighboring agencies, we can increase awareness and safety around school zones, ensuring a safe return to school.”

According to National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, over the past 10 years, 44 school-aged children and teens between the ages of 5-19 were killed in school zones traveling to or from school. Out of that number 77 percent (34) were pedestrians either struck by a school bus or another vehicle.

For more information, please contact MDFR’s Media and Public Relations Office at 786-331-5210.