The Ottawa Safety Council is urging drivers, parents, and students to follow road-safety rules as the new school year begins.
Increased pedestrian activity and heavier traffic around schools during this period raise the risk of accidents. Officials said these reminders were issued to prevent injuries as children return to their daily commutes.
Jason Wilson, CEO of the Ottawa Safety Council, highlighted the need for vigilance in school zones. He said that safety starts on the road and requires the cooperation of all parties involved in the morning and afternoon rush.
Drivers are encouraged to reduce speeds and remain alert for children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway. The council said that school zones require a higher level of caution than standard residential streets, especially during the first few weeks of the term.
Parents are also asked to review safety protocols with their children. These include using designated crosswalks and staying aware of surroundings while walking or cycling to school.
Local officials said that the transition back to school often leads to congestion and erratic driving patterns. This environment increases the likelihood of collisions if drivers do not adhere to posted speed limits and signage.
The safety campaign coincides with the start of the academic year, with key reminders released on Aug. 25 [1]. The council aims to establish a culture of safety that persists throughout the entire school year.
“Safety starts on the road.”
The push for road safety in Ottawa reflects a broader effort to mitigate the seasonal spike in traffic accidents associated with the return to school. By targeting both drivers and pedestrians, the Ottawa Safety Council aims to reduce human error in high-density school zones where the vulnerability of children is highest.
