With kids heading back to school on Tuesday, drivers are being urged to use extra on local roads.
The return to school for students will also mean the return of school buses and additional pedestrians in the community.
Drivers are reminded to watch for school buses stopped on the roadway with alternating red lights flashing.
“We’ve got that transition in traffic… we’re going to have all those kids on bicycles, walking to school, waiting for school busses. So watch out for the red lights when the busses stop when you see them and be careful and cautious the schools as well,” said Kent Orr, general manager with Chatham-Kent Lambton Administrative School Services.
The Ontario Provincial Police said any motorist who fails to stop for a stopped school bus could face stiff penalties. For a first offence, the maximum fine is $2,000 and six demerit points. Additional offences could result in a maximum $4,000 fine, imprisonment, and six demerit points.
Police are also encouraging parents and guardians to talk to their children about safety when travelling to and from school.
Students walking to school should use sidewalks whenever possible. Where sidewalks are unavailable, students should walk on the left side of the road, as far from traffic as possible, facing oncoming vehicles. Pedestrians and cyclists are also encouraged to take advantage of crossing guards whenever possible.