BPS Launches Back-to-School Road Safety Campaign

August 26, 2026

With students soon returning to classrooms, the Brantford Police Service (BPS) is reminding motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists to slow down, stay alert, and make safety a priority.

Throughout September, the BPS Traffic Unit will conduct a Back-to-School Road Safety Campaign focused on promoting safe driving behaviours and addressing offences that put students and other road users at risk. Officers will be conducting targeted enforcement for speeding, aggressive driving, distracted driving, and stop-sign violations, with increased attention around school zones, pedestrian crossings, residential neighbourhoods, and school bus routes.

“Back-to-school means more children and young people are travelling throughout our community each day,” said Robin Matthews-Osmond, Corporate Communications Manager. “We all have a role to play in keeping them safe. Drivers need to slow down, put away distractions, and remain alert, particularly in and around school zones. A few extra seconds of caution can make all the difference.”

Slow Down and Stay Alert

Drivers are reminded to:

• Slow down and obey posted speed limits, particularly in school zones and residential areas.
• Stop fully at stop signs and pedestrian crossings.
• Remain alert for children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway.
• Put away cellphones and eliminate other distractions while driving.
• Allow extra time for increased traffic and congestion around schools.
• Watch carefully for pedestrians, cyclists, and school buses.

Motorists are also reminded that excessive speeding can result in serious consequences under the Highway Traffic Act. Stunt driving charges can result in an immediate driver’s licence suspension and vehicle impoundment, in addition to fines, demerit points and other penalties.

School Bus Safety

BPS is also reminding motorists to use extreme caution around school buses.

When a school bus is stopped with its red lights flashing, motorists approaching the bus from either direction must stop as required by law and remain stopped until it is safe and legal to proceed.

Failing to stop for a school bus can result in significant fines and demerit points. More importantly, passing a stopped school bus puts children at serious risk as they enter or exit the bus and cross the roadway.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to review school and bus safety with children, including safe crossing practices, using designated crossings where available and remaining alert when walking or cycling to and from school.

Safety Starts With All of Us

The return to school is a good reminder that road safety is a shared responsibility. Whether driving, walking, cycling, or taking the bus, everyone can take simple steps to help prevent collisions and keep our youngest community members safe.

BPS encourages everyone to slow down, stay focused and expect the unexpected as students return to school.

For more information and clarification regarding Ontario's rules of the road, visit the Ontario Ministry of Transportation.

Public Safety in Partnership with the Community