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Fairview Crossing Guards Get New Uniforms

FAIRVIEW, NJ (CBSNewYork) - If you're getting help crossing the street in one southeastern Bergen County town, you might notice something different.

WCBS 880's Sean Adams On The Story

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The crossing guards in Fairview now have a new element to their uniforms.

In addition to the dayglow yellow reflective jacket, there is now a flashing red electronic flare worn around the neck.

After 30 years on the street, crossing guard Barbara Miller said she hasn't had a close call herself. In December, though, a car struck another guard.

"The guy, he claimed the sun got in his eyes and he hit him. The poor crossing guard... hit the windshield," Miller told WCBS 880 reporter Sean Adams.

That man suffered a serious ankle injury. According to The Record, 14 crossing guards were killed by vehicles in New Jersey between 1993 and 2008.

In addition to the e-flares, police chief Frank Del Vecchio says more light up equipment is on the way.

"There will be stop signs. It will be a natural stop sign that has flashing lights," he said.

What else do you think can be done to improve safety? Sound off in the comments section below.

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