Safety is Paramount as School Returns

Tuesday, 8 September 2026 10:50

The Oxford OPP will be out making sure school zones and bus routes are safe as students return to school.

OXFORD - It's the first day back to school for the Thames Valley District School Board, the London Catholic District School Board, and CSC Providence.

Here in Oxford County, OPP Constable Randi Crawford is reminding everyone to not only be on the lookout for students walking to and from school, but also for crossing guards, school buses, and school zones.

"When you're looking for crossing guards and all of those things this week, you want to make sure you are paying attention and being extra vigilant! Drink that extra cup of coffee if you need to before you leave, just to make sure you are watching for these children to keep everyone safe."

The OPP has launched Operation Safe Start, so Crawford says officers will be keeping a close eye on the school zones and the bus routes over the next couple of weeks.

"We're going to be travelling in and around the school bus routes and the school zones to make sure everyone is abiding by the rules. If you're not, you will get an education lesson or a ticket!"

If you come across a school bus on the roadway, you must come to a complete stop if its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is on display. Whether you are behind the bus or facing it in the other lane of traffic, Crawford says you must leave 20 metres of space. This is approximately four or five parked car lengths. Those who fail to stop for a school bus could face a $400 to $2,000 fine for the first offence, and multiple offences could result in jail time.

If you are taking a child to school, Crawford says you should be mindful of the different drop-off areas. She says some schools will have a quick drop-off area where you can pull up, have your child get out, and you can leave right away. Parking in these areas could cause congestion for other vehicles and possibly even bus drivers. If you intend on walking your child into the school, make sure you park on a side street or a designated parking area.

Operation Safe Start is from September 8th to September 11th and from September 14th to September 18th.

Randi Crawford called the Heart FM studio to chat with Cody and Marcie on Thursday, September 3rd. You can listen to the full interview below: