As summer break draws to a close, the North Bay Police Service is taking proactive measures to ensure student safety with a comprehensive campaign targeting drivers, pedestrians, and the broader community.
The initiative, launching just before the September school return, focuses on multiple safety aspects including enhanced enforcement in school zones, pedestrian awareness education, and community collaboration.
Enhanced Traffic Enforcement Measures
Police will be increasing their presence in school zones throughout North Bay, with particular attention to speeding vehicles, illegal parking, and failure to stop for school buses. Officers will be conducting targeted enforcement during peak school hours to ensure compliance with traffic laws designed to protect young pedestrians.
Pedestrian Safety Education
The campaign emphasizes educating both drivers and students about safe pedestrian practices. Police are reminding motorists to be extra vigilant in school areas and residential neighborhoods, while encouraging parents to discuss road safety with their children.
Key safety tips being promoted include:
- Always using designated crosswalks
- Making eye contact with drivers before crossing
- Avoiding distractions like smartphones while walking
- Following crossing guard instructions
Community-Wide Safety Approach
North Bay Police are collaborating with school boards, parent groups, and community organizations to create a unified safety net around local schools. The campaign represents a coordinated effort to address safety concerns before the academic year begins rather than reacting to incidents after they occur.
This proactive approach demonstrates the police service's commitment to preventing accidents and ensuring North Bay's students can travel to and from school safely throughout the year.