Local, regional and provincial officials stress vigilance regarding the return to school

DAN CEARNS The Standard

DURHAM/KAWARTHA LAKES: Officials are conveying safety first, with the return of the school year happening this week, for many Ontario students.

The Ontario Provincial Police provided some facts, in a recent press release, on the safety of roadways.

“Ahead of the Labour Day Long Weekend and the start of the school year, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are calling on drivers and other road users to share roadways safely and to recognize a significant number of lives can be saved by doing so. By mid-August, 227 people have died on OPP-patrolled roads this year. This significant number of deaths was attributed to speeding, inattentive driving, impaired driving and the choice to not wear a seatbelt. Twenty one pedestrians and six cyclists were among those who lost their lives.”

OPP Commissioner, Thomas Carrique stressed the importance of being vigilant this autumn. 

“With roadways, sidewalks and crosswalks about to get busier, please think about the people you are sharing the road with, every time you head out. It is as important to them, as it is to you, to get home safely every day. Whether you are driver, passenger, pedestrian or cyclist, never take risks [which] jeopardize your safety or the safety of others.”

Kawartha Lakes Ward 5 Councillor, Eric Smeaton called on residents to pay close attention when driving, at a meeting, on Tuesday, August 27th.

“I just want to wish people all the best and remind people to drive safe. We have a lot of [children] out there now, and it’s going to be a different routine in a week. So, let’s be smart about the speed limits, know where those schools are and take care.”

In a 2023 press release, the Region of Durham had some school safety tips.

“Drivers need to slow down, stay focused, and watch for cyclists and pedestrians: especially distracted kids, who are excited to be back at school. Pedestrians must ensure they always cross the road at a designated crossing or signalized intersection. With more people walking, cyclists and drivers should give themselves extra time to get to their destination and ride with care to protect the safety of children.”