Canada Day has come and gone, and drivers are being reminded to stay alert now that school's done for summer break.
Summer is a time of leisure and fun, but Ontario Provincial Police said that with the vacation season in full swing, it can also be a time when students let down their guard as far as traffic safety is concerned. With more bicycles and foot traffic on the streets, the OPP is once again rolling out its "School's Out, Watch Out" initiative.
Inspector Joseph Varga, detachment commander for OPP Norfolk County, said he wants this summer to be remembered by everybody for fun and friends, and not for tragedy.
"Let's have a safe and happy summer full of great memories and always remember to be safe, be smart and be seen," said Varga in a news release.
Drivers are being asked to drive with extra care, particularly when travelling in an area with parks, community centres, swimming pools and other places of recreation. Remember that you share the road with bicyclists, so give them space, and be sure to slow down and watch for the possibility of children darting into the street.
The OPP is also asking parents to go over safety guidelines with their children, such as how to safely walk along roadsides and crossing streets only at corners or properly-marked crosswalks. If your kids ride their bikes, helmets are the law for everyone under 18, so make sure they wear them. Parents can set an example by wearing their bike helmets also.
There is safety in numbers, and the OPP said it is much safer for a child to be with other children. Use the buddy system whenever possible.