Back to School and Construction zone safety reminder

(Ottawa)—Over the next few days children will be returning to school and will be walking and riding their bikes to their destinations. Sometimes younger children lack the ability to navigate traffic safely. Construction areas can add to the challenge of ensuring the safe movement throughout the city.

The Ottawa Police Service reminds motorists and pedestrians to be aware of the increase in traffic during this time and consider the following safety tips:

Children and pedestrians should walk on available sidewalks.
Always cross at intersections, looking and listening for traffic and walk across only when road is clear and safe to do so.
Follow adult crossing guards, student crossing patrols and school bus operator’s signals.
Always wear a helmet when riding a bike and walk your bike across a roadway.
Reduce speeds in schools zones and be ready to stop at any time. Children do not always notice oncoming traffic.

Construction zones present other challenges to drivers and pedestrians such as:

Increased signage, including speed zone changes, stop signs and detours.
Higher volumes of traffic on alternate routes and possible delays.
Lane reductions, narrower roads, temporary sidewalks and re-designation of roads to one-way travel.
Increased equipment and machinery in the area and workers directing traffic.

Some tips to consider while travelling in construction zones include;

Plan your route to avoid the area,
Lower your speed,
Be aware of new signage, including detour changes,
Watch for changing conditions including movement of pedestrians, vehicles and construction personnel and changing roadway surfaces,
Be patient, remember work zones are necessary to improve infrastructure and roads and make them safer.

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