Milton reminds drivers to slow down as students return to school

As thousands of students return to school, the Town of Milton reminds drivers and other road users to slow down, stay alert, and share the road safely.

“As students return to classrooms this fall, we all have a responsibility to help keep them safe,” said Mayor Gord Krantz.

“While everyone has a role to play, drivers can have the greatest impact by slowing down, staying alert, and watching for children near schools and crossings. Let's work together to ensure every student gets to and from school safely, every day.”

Here are some reminders to help us all be road wise and embrace road safety as a shared responsibility.

School zone flashing lights

Starting Monday, Aug. 31, the Town activated school zone flashing lights. This will remind drivers that the back-to-school season is here. Drivers must reduce their speed to 40 km/h near designated schools when lights are flashing.

Walking to school

Walking to school is a great way to be active – and reduce congestion at schools. Pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers, activate flashing beacons where available, and ensure vehicles have stopped before entering the roadway.

To cross safely, students and families should use available pedestrian crossings; these are often at intersections with pedestrian signals or marked crosswalks. Learn more about pedestrian crossings on the Town’s website.

Cycling to school

Riding a bike to school is also a great option. Cyclists must obey all traffic signals and signs, use designated crossings where available, and be especially cautious near schools and school buses. When riding on roads, cyclists must follow the same rules as other vehicles.

Crossing guards

Crossing guards temporarily stop traffic to help children and other pedestrians safely cross the road near elementary schools. Milton crossing guards help students safely travel to and from 19 local schools.

When a crossing guard raises their sign, drivers in all directions must stop and wait until the guard and pedestrians are completely off the road before proceeding.

School drop-off zones (Kiss and Rides)

Some schools have designated drop-off zones to improve safety and reduce congestion. These zones may be prioritized for kindergarten students and children with special needs.

Be sure to follow posted signs, keep traffic moving, and do not stop in unauthorized areas. By-law staff monitor these zones and use licence plate recognition (LPR).

Project Safe Start partnership

The Town of Milton supports Halton Regional Police Service’s Project Safe Start campaign, which focuses on school zone safety and traffic enforcement each fall. The annual campaign focuses on speeding, seat belts, stop signs, school buses, and school zone enforcement.

Learn more

Find additional safety information for students, pedestrians, and drivers on the Town’s School Safety web page.

Follow the Town on social media this fall for more traffic safety tips.