North Bay

NBPS Launches Annual “Slow It Down for School” Campaign

The North Bay Police Service (NBPS) is reminding motorists to slow down, stay alert and obey the rules of the road as students return to school with the launch of its annual “Slow It Down for School” campaign.

School zones and surrounding neighbourhoods become increasingly busy this time of year. NBPS is urging motorists to take extra care, slow down and avoid dangerous or distracted driving.

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“Every driver in our community has a responsibility to prioritize the safety of our children and youth as they head back to school,” said A/Deputy Chief Jeff Warner. “There is no excuse for dangerous driving around school zones or for failing to stop for a school bus. A moment of impatience or inattention can put a child’s life at risk.”

Stop for School Buses

Motorists approaching a stopped school bus must stop when its overhead red signal lights are flashing or its stop arm is activated.
On a road without a median, vehicles travelling in both directions must stop.
Drivers approaching from behind the bus must stop at least 20 metres away.
Drivers must remain stopped until the bus begins moving, the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm is no longer activated.
Amber means slow down.

“When you see the amber lights, slow down and prepare to stop,” said A/Deputy Chief Warner. “Do not try to beat the bus lights. The bus is coming to a stop to pick up or drop off students, and those students may be about to cross the road.”

Failing to stop for a school bus can result in a minimum fine of $490 and six demerit points for a first offence. Subsequent offences can result in fines of up to $4,000, six demerit points and possible imprisonment of up to six months.

Report Dangerous Driving

NBPS cannot be everywhere at all times, which is why community reporting is an important part of keeping our roads safe. Members of the public are encouraged to report dangerous driving and school bus-related traffic violations when they witness them. Traffic complaints help officers identify problem areas, recognize trends, focus enforcement efforts and investigate dangerous driving behaviour. This year, NBPS is making it easier to report eligible non-emergency traffic concerns through online reporting, providing a convenient way to report bus violations.