Back to School: Safety Reminders for Parents, Students & Commuters

HAMILTON, ON - September 21, 2017 - The City of Hamilton and the Hamilton Police Service are offering tips to residents on extra safety precautions that should be taken as students return to school next week.

Motorists

Motorists are reminded to avoid distractions and stay alert in case a child darts out into your path. Using the phone, eating, or sipping your coffee will affect your reaction time.

Stop when approaching a school bus that is displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop arm. Traffic in both directions must stop while the bus loads or unloads passengers and may only continue when the lights stop flashing.

Give yourself extra time and try to leave earlier on your commute – traffic is generally more congested during the first few weeks of September. Even if you don’t live in a school zone, your area might be affected.

“Back to School is an exciting time for the young people in our community. It’s so great to see students getting back into the classroom to continue their learning. Whether you are walking, riding your bike or driving your car, please remember to pay attention, don’t travel distracted, and leave lots of time so you aren’t rushing. Most of all, stay safe and enjoy this time of year!”

Mayor Fred Eisenberger, City of Hamilton

Cyclists and Pedestrians

Walking and cycling to and from school is a great way to help children get their daily physical activity, and it’s good for the environment too. More people walking mean fewer cars on the road and less pollution.

All cyclists under the age of eighteen years are required by law to wear a helmet while riding or operating a bicycle. Helmets only protect if they fit snugly and are worn correctly.

Pedestrians are also reminded to put away electronic devices, cellphones and take out ear buds so they can easily hear and see approaching traffic.

"As students head back to school, Hamilton Police Service wants to remind all road users to remember a few rules: look at the car, look at the person and make eye contact. It's a busy time on the roads and we all have a responsibility to get our students safely to and from school."

P.C. Claus Wagner, Hamilton Police Service

School Zones

School zones are busy places with many children walking, riding their bikes and getting dropped off. The speed limit in these areas and near playgrounds is 40km/hr. Drive slowly, pay attention and watch for cyclists and pedestrians.

Parents picking up or dropping off children are asked to follow all posted signage to avoid fines. Most school areas have No Stopping and No Parking zones that are to be kept clear for safe access by pedestrians, and to allow school buses or other school vehicles to safely unload student passengers.

School crossing guards are positioned in school zones across the city to help students safely cross the street. Drivers and pedestrians should follow the directions of crossing guards at all times. By law, motorists must wait for the pedestrians and the crossing guard to reach the other side of the roadway before proceeding.

 If a school crossing guard is not at their usual location, call 905-546-2200 immediately. In the meantime, ask the school principal or teachers for assistance. View school crossing guard locations.

Additional Information

Visit www.hamilton.ca/backtoschool for safety tips
Video: Back to School Safety Tips