Upon returning to school children will be very enthusiastic and energetic, as well as distracted, as they meet and greet numerous friends they haven’t seen all summer long.
Personal safety will not be first and foremost on their minds, but unfortunately all it takes for an accident or tragedy to occur is one brief lapse in judgement.
There are approximately 32 schools in Wellington County, including primary and secondary schools that educate over 12,000 students and Wellington County OPP want to do everything possible to ensure the protection and safety of the children attending these schools.
“Children are our most precious and vulnerable resource and keeping them safe is a priority of Wellington County OPP,” said acting inspector Susan Gray.
With more children on the streets and buses back out on the roads, now is a good time for everyone to reacquaint themselves with some road safety tips.
Motorists must always stop for school buses
Motorists traveling in both directions must stop when approaching a stopped school bus with upper red lights flashing.
A flashing stop arm will swing out when passengers are boarding or exiting the bus. Once all passengers have boarded, the stop arm will fold away.
Do not start moving until the red lights have stopped flashing and the bus begins to move ahead.
Fines and charges
Vehicle owners – not just drivers – can be charged if their vehicle illegally passes a stopped school bus.
Fines for a first offence range from $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points. Each additional offence could mean $1,000 to $4,000, six demerit points and possible jail time up to six months.
School bus safety tips
Always be at the bus stop on time. Never run to or from the bus. Wait for the bus at a safe place away from the road. Wait for the bus to stop before approaching it to get on.
Remember – if you can touch the bus you are too close.
The driver will tell you when you can board. Walk up steps hanging on the hand rail. Never push or shove.
If you drop something when you are boarding or exiting the school bus, leave it. Never stop to pick it up.
Ensure children are aware that within 10 giant steps of the school bus is the danger zone.
Sit facing the driver, keep the aisles clear and always listen to and obey the bus driver.
“By reinforcing good road safety habits among ourselves and our children, we can help to keep them safe throughout the school year,” said Gray.
“By taking a few moments to talk to your children about safety, could mean the difference between life and death. It’s worth the time.”
