Officers of the Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to share some back‑to‑school safety information.
During this back‑to‑school season, we can expect more traffic, buses and children on the roads during their rush‑hour commutes. As students return to the classroom, some beginning as early as this week, the OPP reminds motorists of the importance of sharing our roadways responsibly.
Grenville County OPP will be running a two‑week campaign to get drivers back to being student and school aware. The campaign will cover all Grenville County schools in our area and we will be conducting strict enforcement starting with the first day back to school on Tuesday, September 5th, 2023.
Please 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. For the first offence, fines range from $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points. Each following offence ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 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 that 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.
We want to make sure the start of the school year is a safe one. By practicing safe driving behaviours in our school zones, we can each do our part to reduce roadway risks this September.
