As students across Waterloo Region return to school, safety remains a top priority for everyone—whether walking to elementary school or heading off to college. The Waterloo Regional Police remind both drivers and pedestrians to stay alert and follow traffic safety rules. With increased patrols and initiatives like Project Safe Semester, these tips aim to keep students safe and informed throughout the academic year. The following are safety tips for parents and younger students:
- Plan a safe route to and from school
- Cross at designated crosswalks with the walk signal
- Stop in both directions for a school bus with lights flashing
- Establish a plan for school pickup by family or friends
A noticeable and visible increase in police presence will also support Project Safe Semester, a three week campaign which promotes the safety and wellbeing of thousands of University and College students who are beginning their post-secondary studies in Waterloo Region.
The following are some safety tips for post-secondary students:
- Lock your doors
- Don't let anyone into a building that you don't know
- Walk in groups whenever possible
- Cross roads at designated locations in accordance with traffic signals
- If consuming alcohol, drink responsibly and plan ahead to ensure safe arrival and return