Tens of thousands of Mississauga kids head back to school today

Get to bed early, stay alert on the streets and slow down in and around school zones.

Those are a few messages City of Mississauga officials have for the tens of thousands of youngsters heading back to school this week, their parents and drivers who have a habit of speeding through neighbourhoods.

Officials have some advice for everyone as the streets once again fill up with backpack-toting kids, school buses and some 200 crossing guards across the city:

• bedtime routine–the first week can be used to get back into the “early-to-rise, early-to-bed” routine. A few days in the classroom will help parents work this specific magic, officials say
• school walking routes–the City is focused on keeping kids safe on their way to and from school. When school starts, more than 200 school crossing guards will help kids get to and from classes safely along designated school walking routes
• remind kids to stay alert–when sending kids out the door, check their ears to ensure they aren’t wearing ear buds or headphones if their route to school crosses any railroad tracks. “Because newer trains tend to be quiet, they may not be heard coming, so it’s best to stay alert and off all phones and devices while in these areas,” officials say. Also a good idea to keep the devices out of kids ears if they’re going to be walking near busy streets
• remind drivers to be aware–obey posted speed limits and follow all rules at drop-off and pick-up locations at schools. Also, be safe and follow all rules around school buses

Peel Regional Police have also stepped up enforcement efforts around schools this week. They’re taking a zero-tolerance approach to aggressive and dangerous drivers in school zones and near school buses.

For more road safety and back-to-school tips, visit the City’s website.