DEKALB -- State police say they will step up traffic enforcement near Hermon-DeKalb Central School in the wake of complaints that motorists are passing stopped school buses.

Troopers say most instances of these reports indicate this is happening on U.S. Route 11 where there is more than one lane in the same direction while the red lights and stop signs are activated on the bus and students are getting on or off the bus.

Troopers say it is illegal to pass a stopped school bus that is stopped to load or unload children, regardless of how many travel lanes are on the road.

If the yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop, troopers said.

A news release from state police also suggests:

• If driving behind a bus, allow a greater following distance than if driving behind a car. It will give more time to stop once the yellow lights start flashing.

• Never pass a bus from behind – or from either direction if on an undivided road – if it is stopped to load or unload children.

• The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children. Stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus.

• Be alert. Children often are unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks.