WELLINGTON COUNTY – The return of school means more children on local roads, more buses at neighbourhood stops and a greater need for drivers to slow down and pay attention.
With students heading back to classrooms next week, Wellington County OPP is reminding motorists, students and parents that a few extra seconds of caution can help prevent a serious collision.
Police are urging students walking to school to use crosswalks, look both ways before crossing, and follow the instructions of crossing guards.
Staying alert is equally important, says OPP. Students are encouraged to put away their cellphones and avoid distractions such as headphones or other devices that could make it harder to hear or see approaching traffic.
For students travelling by bicycle, the OPP recommends wearing a properly fitted helmet and following all rules of the road.
Drivers, meanwhile, are being asked to take particular care in school zones and around areas where children are walking or cycling. Motorists should slow down, remain alert and obey crossing guards.
School buses are another major focus of the OPP’s back-to-school safety message.
Students should wait until their bus has come to a complete stop before boarding or getting off. Once on board, they should remain seated while the bus is moving.
For motorists, police are stressing that school bus lights are a signal to pay close attention.
When a school bus has its amber lights flashing, drivers must slow down and be prepared to stop. When the red lights are flashing and the bus’s stop arm is extended, motorists must stop.
Passing a stopped school bus is not only illegal, but can put children in danger. Drivers who fail to stop can face a fine of $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points.
The OPP says officers will be out in force on Wellington County roadways next week and throughout the school year, with a focus on school zones and bus stops.
