Hand-Held 'STOP' Signs Make Deputies Easier to Spot

When it comes to , the wants to protect its personnel and motorists in as many ways as possible. That's why deputies are being equipped with hand-held "STOP" signs.

The Sheriff's Office ordered a couple of signs months ago to test and see if they improved visibility, and there was a tremendously positive public response to them, Chief Deputy Lee Weems said.

Many citizens wanted to see them in use at each school crossing, he added.

"We very much appreciate the public’s interaction and feedback, and the citizens were very clear that they wanted them," he said.  "We were even approached by citizens willing to help fund the purchase of additional signs and this was very much appreciated by the deputies, as it means a lot to them to have members of the community willing to help purchase safety equipment.  The deputies place a high value on their partnership with the community."

The signs, priced at $179 each plus shipping, are battery-powered and lit with LED lights.  Overall the lights work well but a few chargers have had to be replaced, Weems said.

Deputies are required to wear fluorescent clothing when directing traffic at a school crossing and many also use plastic cones over the ends of their flashlights or fluorescent gloves to increase visibility, Weems said.  The signs are yet another tool to increase safety.

A dozen signs have been ordered and they are arriving in groups as they become available, he said. 

What do you think about the hand-held STOP signs? Is it easier to see deputies as they direct traffic?