Ottawa police urge caution as students return to classrooms

Many students in Ottawa and the surrounding area are back to school today, which means and increase of children walking, biking and buses on the roads.

As students head to the classroom, Ottawa police officers are out patrolling ensuring people are following the rules of the road. A post on X from the Traffic Escort and Enforcement Unit notes police will be watching for traffic violations near bus stops, school zones and crossing guard areas for at least the next two weeks.

In a press release, police ask parents to teach children the rules of the road, encouraging them to safely cross the street and look for oncoming traffic.

Motorists are being told to slow down in school areas and prepare to stop at any time.

“Children may not always be aware of oncoming traffic,” police wrote.

Drivers should always obey bus signals, and must stop in both directions on roads without a median when a bus has flashing lights. Fines for not stopping range from $400 to $2,000 and carry six demerit points.

People should be cautious, police say, at pedestrian crossings and near sidewalks where many young cyclists or walkers could be. Bikers are also being told to wear their helmets and walk the bike across roadways.

“Follow the guidance of crossing guards, crossing patrols, and school bus drivers,” officials say.

The back-to-school season can be stressful for some, but the city can help:

• PLEO
• YouthNet
• Youth Services Bureau: Crisis Line 613-260-2360 
• Centre LeCap