Back To School Safety Tips

(WELLINGTON COUNTY, ON) Tuesday September 3rd, 2013 will be the end of summer vacation and the start of another school year for the children of Wellington County. Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) wants to remind residents of the County and visitors that we all have the responsibility to ensure the safety of the children while travelling to and from school.

Wellington County OPP will once again be proactive during the first week of school with providing extra patrols near school zones, and routes that students would take to and from school. Officers will be focusing on offences such as; speeding, failing to stop at stop signs, failing to yield to pedestrians, and parking violations. Wellington County OPP Detachment Commander Inspector Scott Lawson says “Adults need to provide positive examples to children by obeying traffic safety rules, and respectful behaviour towards others using the roadways. It is everyone’s duty to be extra vigilant on the roadways of our community. Let’s ensure each child arrives to and from school safely each and every day”.

FOR PARENTS, CAREGIVERS AND CHILDREN

Walk on sidewalks where available

Always cross at intersections

When riding a bicycle always wear a helmet

Always walk you bicycle across the roadway

WHEN CROSSING AN INTERSECTION WITHOUT SIGNALS OR CROSSING GUARDS

Stop before stepping onto the road

Look for eye contact with the drivers of motor vehicles

Look in all directions before crossing the road

Stop, look and listen for traffic

Cross safely when it is safe and continue to look in all directions

WHEN CROSSING AT AN INTERSECTION

Wait for the pedestrian walk sign

Look for eye contact with motorists

Stop, look, and listen for traffic

Look all ways for traffic

Cross the road safely when the road is clear

Walk, don’t run across the road

DRIVERS

Be aware of school zones and respect the speed limits and do not pass other vehicles

Be prepared to stop at any time.

Obey traffic signs and rules of the road

Do not be a distracted driver

Look to have eye contact with pedestrians

Take your time when leaving or entering a driveway

Stop when directed by a crossing guard

Watch for school bus flashing lights and stop signs, and do not start moving until the red lights have stopped flashing, the STOP arm folds away, and the bus starts to move

School Bus Laws

Failing to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights can result in a fine and six demerit points for a first offence under the Highway Traffic Act.

Failing To Obey A Crossing Guard

Crossing guards are used to protect our children. All motorists are to watch and obey the direction of the crossing guard. Motorists who fail to obey this direction can be subject to a fine under the Highway Traffic Act.

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