The Newton Police Department employs civilian crossing guards to supplement pedestrian safety at 15 intersections throughout Newton during the school year. These non-sworn positions have a very important job in making sure that school childern have a safe means to get to their respective schools.

Traffic collisions are a leading cause of death for children under 15 years of age. In 2005, many of the fatalities among young pedestrians occurred before and after school, and 82 percent occurred at non-intersection locations.

Aside from ensuring that children remain safe while crossing highways, crossing guards also protect our children by reporting any suspicious activity or safety hazards to police.

The Newton Police Department participates in the Safe Routes to School program which promotes pedestrian safety for schoolchildren within our community. The department has also installed highly visible signage and enhanced crosswalks at frequently used intersections to further protect pedestrians.