This week is School Bus Safety Week in Ontario.
The theme of this year’s event is #StopOnRed and it is intended to remind everyone how important it is to be aware on the roads, especially around stopped school busses. According to STEO it is especially important to be careful when busses have their red overhead lights flashing and stop arm extended.
According to the OPP the fine for failing to stop for a school bus with lights flashing is $400 to $2000 and six demerit points. The vehicle owner can be charged for illegally passing a school bus even if they weren’t driving.
Wednesday is a particularly special day as it is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day. On October 18th STEO is encouraging parents and children to show their thanks for the over 18,000 professional school bus drivers in this province. STEO says bus drivers take on the tremendous responsibility of ensuring children are protected and out of harm’s way.
A thank you or a simple wave can be enough to show you appreciate their effort.