ESSEX - Have you noticed the signs cropping up on lawns around town? You know, the red and white ones with the polite suggestion, "Drive Like Your Kids Live Here."

Members of Boy Scout Troop 12 and the Essex Police Union have combined efforts to distribute the signs. When drivers see a sign, police and the scouts are asking residents to take a moment to look at their speedometer and to slow down.

"Last year, we had a couple of close calls," said Police Corporal Russell Gingras. "Speeding is the most regularly reported motor vehicle offense in the community. The department is out all the time doing motor vehicle enforcement.

"We are looking for another way to address the issue, an alternative, maybe, to writing out tickets or warnings," Gingfras continued. "When I first saw these signs they caught my eye, I'm hoping they will do the same for other drivers."

The scouts have put out about two dozen signs to date and are ready to do more. The police union purchased 60 signs.

Residents interested in having one of the signs placed in their yard are asked to email rgingras@essexct.gov with their name, address (sign location request), and phone number. Residents can also call the Essex Resident Trooper/Essex Police Office at 860-767-1054.