Keeping Students Safe on Darker Mornings in Western School Division
A Message to Parents and Guardians
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As our mornings grow darker, many students are walking to school or waiting for the bus before sunrise. Low light, frost, and fog make it harder for drivers to see children near the road. Please review these safety reminders with your family.
Be Bright, Be Seen
Wear bright reflective stripes on jackets, backpacks, and boots. Reflective tape is inexpensive and helps drivers see children from much farther away.
Choose bright outerwear and consider a small flashlight or clip-on light, especially at rural stops without streetlights.
Walking and Bus Safety
Use sidewalks where available; otherwise walk facing traffic. Cross at marked crossings and make eye contact with drivers first.
Put away phones and earbuds, and walk with others on familiar, well-lit routes.
Arrive at the bus stop early and wait well back from the road until the bus stops and the door opens.
Cross at least three metres in front of the bus on the driver's signal. Never cross behind the bus.
Drivers: Please Be Extra Vigilant
Slow down in school zones, residential areas, and near bus stops.
Stop for school buses when red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
Watch for pedestrians, use your headlights, clear frost from all windows, and avoid distractions.
Thank you for helping keep our students safe. Questions about a bus stop or walking route can be directed to your school principal or our transportation department.
Sincerely,
Western School Division