Getting to School Safely

Children get to school in a variety of way, such as walking, biking, on the school bus, or by car.  Below are CAA’s tips to keep children safe on their way to school.

Driving Your Kids to School

Tips:

• Look out for school zones and obey speed limits.
• Drivers must wait until pedestrians and crossing guards are safely on the sidewalk before driving on.
• Don’t drop off and pick up your kids on the opposite side of the street.
• Keep an eye out for children darting out from between parked cars.

Walking Your Kids to School

Tips:

• Gadgets can be distracting, put them in backpacks or leave them at home.
• Decide on a route to school together. Parents be sure to point out crosswalks, stop signs, and family or friends’ homes.
• Stay alert when walking and crossing the street.
• Buddy up with a sibling or friend for a safer and more fun way to walk to school.

Sharing the Road with School Buses

Tips:

• Drivers in all directions must stop when they see red lights flashing on a school bus.
• Drivers should stop at least five meters behind the bus. In fact, it is the law. Each province has their own law, but a good rule of thumb is five meters.
• Not stopping for a school bus can result in a hefty fine.
• Once the red lights stop flashing and the bus begins to move, drivers can continue their journey.