It’s back to school time!
As school doors open, traffic gets a little heavier on our streets. People are back from holidays, school buses and public transit are on regular routes, and more people are walking, cycling or driving to school.
To help with the transition and share the roads safely, read our safety tip. Help everyone stay safe this school year!
1) Observe School Zone Speeds
Although you should always obey posted speed limits, it is especially important during the school year. Children crossing the road on their way to and from school can easily get distracted and step into harm’s way. Slowing down and being vigilant is crucial to keeping kids safe. Children are often out throughout the day at recess, lunch, and for certain classes, so it’s important to drive slowly throughout the day.
2) Obey the Crossing Guard
A crossing guard is there to keep children safe. If you come up to a set of lights, and the light turns green, but the crossing guard still says stop, follow his/her direction and not the traffic light. There might be a child still crossing the street that you can’t see.
3) Watch for Darting Children
Kids are small and easily distracted, and for drivers, this can create dangerous situations on the roads. Be vigilant and alert behind the wheel. You never know when a small child might step out from between parked cars or off a sidewalk. Your fast reflexes might be needed to prevent an accident.
4) School Buses
Most mishaps take place outside the bus. Make sure children don’t arrive too early at the bus stop where they can wander or get into mischief. Make sure children wait well away from the road and stay back until the school bus makes a full stop and the doors open. Explain that they must walk at least three meters (10 feet) away when crossing in front of the bus so the driver can see them. When driving your car near a school bus please note that extra caution is needed. You shouldn’t pass a school bus when the signal lights are flashing (as children are often crossing the road at that time), and drive slowly as a general precaution.
You can find more information at www.getprepared.gc.ca
Lisa Rowney / WCB Specialist / PEO Canada