With local students heading back to school this week, the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service is kicking off a back-to-school safety initiative for September.
Police are reminding people to drive safely, especially in school zones, around school buses, and near crossing guards. Motorists should also be extra cautious in the morning and mid-afternoon when children are walking, riding bikes, being dropped off/picked up by parents, or getting on/off school buses.
According to Transport Canada, September is a dangerous month for pedestrians, with more fatalities occurring during this month than any other.
The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service has some tips on how to make September safer in the area, including:
School zones
- Keep a close eye on your surroundings and obey the posted speed limit
- Recognize when you are entering a school zone and be prepared to stop at any time
- You must yield to pedestrians and school buses
School buses
- Drive with caution near school buses
- Do not pass a school bus when amber or red lights are flashing (this applies to motor vehicles and bicycles)
- You must stop at least 20 metres away from the bus; you cannot proceed until the bus moves
- Have your children complete online school bus safety training
Crossovers and crossing guards
- Stop and yield the whole roadway at pedestrian crossovers, school crossings and other locations where there is a crossing guard
- Obey crossing guards – stop before the crossing and do not proceed until all pedestrians have fully cleared the entire roadway