(Lenox and Addington, ON – August 26, 2023)

Officers of the Lennox and Addington (L&A) County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are asking that we all pay close attention to the fact that kids are going back to school, and we need to be careful to help keep them safe.

“During this back-to-school season, we can expect more traffic, busses, and children on the roads during their rush-hour commutes,” said Provincial Constable David Yome, Community Safety/Media Relations Officer. “As students return to the classroom, the OPP reminds motorists of the importance of sharing our roadways responsibly.”

The L&A County OPP are running a two-week campaign in an effort to return everyone to being more aware of students on the roads and near our schools. It runs in the county from Monday, August 28 to Friday, September 1 and then intensifies from the first day back to school (Tuesday, September 5) through to Friday, September 8.

No matter where you live, the OPP would like everyone to remember the following:

• Obey speed limits and stay alert, especially in school and playground zones.
• Avoid using cell phones and other distractions while driving.
• When a school bus is flashing its alternating red lights, traffic in both directions must stop and not pass. Failure to do so could result in a fine. First offence $400 to $2000 and six demerit points. Each following offence $1000 to $4000 and six demerit points and possible jail time (up to six months).
• When pedestrians are crossing the street, come to a complete stop and do not block the crosswalk with your vehicle. Make eye contact with the pedestrian and ensure they have cleared the road before proceeding.
• Always follow the direction of the crossing guards. Crossing guards are there to keep children safe.
• Keep an eye out for children, especially during school operating hours. Kids can easily become distracted and do not always understand the rules of the road.
• Unload child passengers away from traffic and congestion or in a designated drop-off area.

(List provided by L&A OPP)

“We want to make sure the start of the school year is a safe one,” said Yome. “By practicing safe driving behaviors in our school zones, we can each do our part to reduce roadway risks this September.”