Dear Students,

Your safety is very important to us! When walking to and from school, it’s important to cross streets the right way so drivers can see you and stop safely. Please read the tips below and remember them every day.

 How to Use an RRFB (Flashing Crosswalk Button)

RRFB stands for Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon. These flashing lights help drivers see that someone wants to cross the street.

Steps to use an RRFB correctly:

1. Stop at the crosswalk.
2. Push the button once.
3. Wait on the sidewalk until traffic comes to a complete stop.
4. Look left, right, and left again.
5. Walk (don’t run) across the street when it is safe.

 Where You’ll See These Crosswalks

There are several RRFB crosswalks installed around town to help keep students safe. These include locations on State Route 15 at the High School, two locations on State Route 109 near the YMCA, and another location at SPPS on Locust Street. Additional RRFB crosswalks are planned, and more safety improvements will be coming in the future.

 Always Use Designated Crosswalks

Crosswalks are placed where drivers expect pedestrians to be.

• Use painted crosswalk lines
• Use crosswalks with flashing lights or signals
• Cross with a crossing guard when available

 Never Run Into the Street

Running out into the middle of the street is very dangerous.

• Do not cross between parked cars
• Do not chase balls or friends into the road
• Do not assume a driver sees you

Cars take time to stop, even when drivers are paying attention.

 Remember

• Be patient
• Be alert
• Be predictable

When you use crosswalks and RRFBs the right way, you help keep yourself, your friends, and drivers safe.

Sincerely,

Kyle Stechschulte

Safety and Public Works Director

Chief of Police

Village of Ottawa