Police in Waterloo region remind commuters of traffic safety rules as students head back to school

Following a staff PA Day after the Labour Day long weekend, majority of students in Waterloo region and Guelph return to the classroom Wednesday. 

While students will face new restrictions regarding cell phones and vapes in the classroom, regional police are reminding people outside of the school to have patience as increased traffic is anticipated.

"You're going to see a lot more traffic on the sidewalks and on the road," explained Const. Chris Iden, a public information officer with Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS). 

"We're looking at a lot more bus traffic in the area as well so we want to make sure people are aware of the rules and laws."

Iden is reminding drivers that when a school bus stops with its flashing lights and stop sign out, drivers must stop and wait with no exceptions. 

Iden says given the size of a school bus there's a lack of visibility for children potentially crossing the road. 

"Even if it's multiple lanes, you listen and pay attention to the bus lights," Iden said. "It's a pretty high fine and you're looking at some serious points. We don't need anything bad to happen when it's completely avoidable."

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The roads aren't the only place where residents may see an increase of traffic. Many students may be walking to school with their family.

The city of Kitchener sent out a release in an effort to eliminate serious injuries and deaths in the community. 

Specifically at pedestrian crossings, the city says:

"What's important for anybody who's walking, especially for the young ones, is to have that conversation with your parents. Know where you're going and stay safe," said Iden.

He adds there may be areas without sidewalks but there are still parts of the roads pedestrians can travel on to stay safe.

To help facilitate pedestrian safety, crossing guards will be present before and after school at some crosswalks.