With the start of a new school year, Bramptonians will be seeing increased vehicle, bike and pedestrian traffic across the city.
BRAMPTON, ON (August 31, 2022) – The month of September marks the start of a new school year and many children in Brampton will be heading back to the classroom.
Pedestrian safety in and around schools is a priority for the City of Brampton. Everyone has a role to play in keeping our students and community safe. Here is how you can do your part:
• Obey crossing guards. The City of Brampton has 248 crossing guards and 191 school crossings across the community. Under the Highway Traffic Act, a crossing guard’s stop sign has the same legal authority as a stop sign at an intersection. Motorists face a minimum $150 fine and three demerit points for not stopping.
• Walk or bike to school to reduce traffic around them. Walking and biking to school results in numerous health and safety benefits for people and communities.
• Get involved with the Brampton School Traffic Safety Council to learn more about how to help keep our community safe.
• If you have concerns about a specific area, you can request a school safety site inspection by filling out this form.
This Friday, September 2, crossing guards will stand at school crossing locations around the community and display a sign to advise drivers to put safety first, and remind them that school starts on Tuesday, September 6.
By working together, we can keep Brampton safe for all road, trail and sidewalk users.
Active Transportation
Walking or ‘rolling’ to school is a great option for families, as active transportation promotes physical and mental wellbeing, reduces traffic congestion and helps reduce air pollution.
Schools interested in starting a walk-to-school program can access the City’s guide.
The City continues to build a network of well-connected bike lanes and recreational trails that make travel by bike a safe and desirable option for work, recreation and school trips. Cyclists must do their part to keep Brampton streets, sidewalks and trails safe. Some important safety tips include:
• Wear a helmet – it could save your life.
• Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals
• Use hand signals
• Yield to pedestrians
Cyclists are also reminded that under the City’s Traffic By-law, only bicycles with wheels less than 50 centimetres (20 inches) are permitted on sidewalks. Wheels of this size are typical of children’s bikes.
For more information on cycling in Brampton and safety tips visit www.brampton.ca/cycling.
Brampton School Traffic Safety Council
The Brampton School Traffic Safety Council meets throughout the year to discuss pedestrian and traffic matters at and around elementary and secondary schools to keep our community safe. The Council conducts school site inspections, advises upon matters related to school traffic routes, and refers school safety matters to appropriate agencies. Their website features student safety programs such as tips on walking safely to school, videos on the benefits of walking, and links to information on parking and Kiss & Ride.To learn more visit www.brampton.ca.
Automated Speed Enforcement System
Brampton was one of the first cities in Ontario to implement an Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) system in September 2020, and there are now 50 cameras installed across Brampton. These cameras are in community safety zones, near schools, day care centres, playgrounds, parks and on roadways posted less than 80 km per hour, where they are used to protect those most vulnerable in our community.
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MEDIA CONTACT
City of Brampton Media Relations
mediarelations@brampton.ca
