The Ottawa Safety Council is reminding drivers that school zones are once again bustling with activity—and demand extra care and attention behind the wheel.
Our latest campaign, “School Zone = Slow Down,” reinforces a simple but critical message: slowing down saves lives. With children walking, biking, and rolling to school each day, school zones are among the most active—and vulnerable—areas on our roads.
Why This Campaign Matters
As families settle into school routines, drivers must remain aware of the increased presence of students near roads and crossings. The Ottawa Safety Council is urging all road users to stay vigilant and prioritize safety throughout the school year.
School zones are in effect from September to June, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., but safety doesn’t follow a clock. Children can be present at any time—before school, after hours, and during extracurricular activities—making constant awareness essential.
Key Safety Reminders for Drivers
The campaign is supported by a Road Safety Public Service Announcement highlighting the following essential practices:
Slow Down
Reduced school zone speeds of 30–40 km/h are designed to protect vulnerable road users.
These zones are enforced, with fines and demerit points for violations.
Stay Focused
School zones demand full attention. Even momentary distraction can have serious consequences. Children may be near crosswalks, parked vehicles, or between gaps in traffic. One glance away is one moment too long.
Slower Speed Saves Lives
At lower speeds, the outcome of a collision is dramatically different:
50 km/h = significantly higher risk of fatal injury
30 km/h = much higher chance of survival
A pedestrian’s safety depends on your speed.
Stay Alert
Kids don’t see the road like adults do. They aren’t able to judge traffic like adults. Your speed is their safety margin.
A Shared Responsibility
Road safety is a shared responsibility. Every driver has a role to play in creating a safer environment for students, families, and school staff. By slowing down and staying attentive, we can help ensure that every child arrives safely—both to school and back home.
Watch and Share the Message
The Ottawa Safety Council encourages residents to watch and share our Road Safety PSA to help spread awareness across the community. Together, we can reinforce the importance of safe driving habits in school zones.
When you see a School Zone, Slow Down.
Watch our Road Safety PSA here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6N_rZefHsX8