As daylight‑saving time ends this weekend, the Syracuse Police Department (SPD) is warning families that shorter daylight hours mean reduced visibility on evening commutes. Sgt. Thomas Blake emphasized that the safety of children walking to and from school is the department’s top concern.
Visibility tips for parents
“Visibility is the biggest concern, so we want to make sure as kids are going to school that they have some visible clothing on them so that drivers can see them,” Sgt. Blake said. SPD recommends that children wear bright or reflective jackets, vests, or accessories during the darker evenings that follow the time change. The department also urges drivers to stay alert, reduce speed in school zones, and use headlights responsibly.
Recruitment incentive to strengthen the force
In addition to the safety reminder, SPD announced a new $20,000 lateral‑transfer incentive aimed at attracting qualified officers from other agencies. “We are doing this to try and attract more qualified applicants that want to come here. Maybe they are looking for a career change and want to come to Syracuse and work with us,” a department spokesperson explained. The incentive is part of a broader effort to bolster the department’s workforce and maintain a high level of public safety.
SPD highlighted recent upgrades to its facilities, noting a brand‑new, state‑of‑the‑art building that will support both new and existing officers. “We are really investing in our future,” the spokesperson added, underscoring the department’s commitment to professional development and community protection.
What families can do now
Parents are encouraged to take immediate steps to protect their children:
- Dress children in bright colors or reflective gear before dusk.
- Teach kids to stay on sidewalks and use crosswalks whenever possible.
- Remind drivers to watch for pedestrians, especially in school zones and residential streets.
SPD will continue to monitor traffic patterns and will increase patrols in high‑risk areas during the transition period. The department also invites community members to share safety concerns through its non‑emergency line or online portal.
Looking ahead
The recruitment incentive is expected to draw experienced officers who can bring valuable skills to Syracuse, helping the department meet growing demands for public safety. With the combination of heightened visibility measures and a strengthened workforce, SPD aims to keep Syracuse neighborhoods safe as the days grow shorter.
Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
