OREM -- Never mind swine flu, gang violence or natural disasters, the safety of area school children is on the line every day as they leave home and cross the street. City crossing guards are their protectors, and many times that is exactly what they are called upon to do.

"These kids' lives are at stake," said Paul Overson, a new crossing guard this school year. Also the Neighborhoods in Action chairman for the SCERA Park neighborhood, he wanted to see what the local schools were all about. In just a few weeks after becoming a crossing guard, Overson says he has had a real education.

Sgt. Gordon Smith, the Orem police officer in charge of crossing guards, says there are school crossing hot-spots throughout the city that drivers and parents should be aware of.

"There are some areas in the city that cause me concern. One of the areas is 800 East, north of Center Street," he said. "There are two elementary schools and one junior high on that road. Now we only provide crossing guards for the elementary schools. The reason for the concern is the potential speeds that can be obtained on those roads, and really north of 1200 North, the vehicles are coming off a hill when approaching the crossings."

Overson's location at 400 South and 300 East is perhaps one of the most heavily congested pedestrian-street traffic areas in the city. Every weekday at 3 p.m., children are being picked up or walking home from Scera Park Elementary, Noah Webster Charter School, Orem High School and Meridian School, and the Lakeridge Junior High school bus is dropping off students -- all within three or four blocks.

"Traffic is so thick we can't get into our driveway," said Alene Alger, a resident on 400 South. "Sometimes folks are so focused on picking up their kids they aren't paying attention."

Traffic is so backed up, she says, that guitar students she teaches at her home just drive off and have to try again to drop off the child later. Alger lives in a cul-de-sac with only one outlet.

"I also have a concern with 400 South where Noah Webster and Scera Park share a crossing," Smith said. "There is a high volume of vehicle traffic in that area during the school crossing times. The city administration and Noah Webster officials are aware of the problem and are trying to come up with solutions."

Orem has 45 crossing guards employed by the city, with 13 of those being alternates to allow time off for permanent crossing guards, Smith said. They range in age from early 20s to over 50.

Keeping children safe is the crossing guards' main priority. Crossing guards attend an initial training meeting and once a year participate in a two-hour refresher course to reinforce their duties and responsibilities.

While Smith is not aware of any incidents in Orem where a child or crossing guard have been injured, there have been several close calls.

"When that happens, I have instructed the crossing guard to obtain a license plate and I will make an effort to come talk to you," he said. "I pray to never have an incident where a child or crossing guard is injured."

Smith encourages parents to talk to their children about crosswalk and street safety and the importance of obeying crossing guards.

"Do not ride your bikes, scooters, skateboards, roller skates or any other wheeled items through the crosswalks," he said. "Please, do not follow the crossing guard into the road."

Crossing guards are instructed to have children remain on the sidewalk and ensure that traffic is completely stopped in both directions before allowing pedestrians to cross.

Smith reminds drivers that if they are cited for speeding in a school zone the fine is higher.

"The judge also likes to see you in court so it is a mandatory court appearance," he said. "Most of all, parents, I know it is your goal and my goal to keep our children safe."

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