National School Safety Week is putting the spotlight on keeping children safe before they even reach the classroom.
Running October 17th to 23rd, the campaign from the Canada Safety Council is reminding drivers, families, schools and communities that everyone has a role in making trips to and from school safer.
More than 30 per cent of Canadian children and youth walk, bike or use another form of active transportation to get to school. However, the trip can come with risks, especially around busy school zones, crossings and pick-up and drop-off areas.
Parachute Canada says an average of 18 child pedestrians and cyclists are killed and more than 1,500 are injured on Canadian roads each year.
The Canada Safety Council says drivers can help by slowing down in school zones, putting away distractions, stopping for school buses and watching carefully for children crossing the road. Drivers should also give pedestrians and cyclists extra space.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to practice school routes with children before they travel independently, use marked crossings and make sure kids are easy to see. Parking a short distance from school entrances can also help reduce congestion.
Schools and communities can do their part by reviewing pick-up and drop-off procedures and identifying hazards such as blocked crosswalks, illegal parking and unsafe turns.
The message during National School Safety Week is simple: everyday choices can make a difference and help local students get to school, and back home, safely.
