Provincial Police in Sioux Lookout are asking motorists to reduce their speed in school zones.
OPP say more and more kids in the community are texting and talking on cell phones as they walk to and from school.
Police ask that you adjust your driving, pay attention and be prepared to stop for children and schools.
Canadian Automobile Association stats show that 25% of drivers reported witnessing a near miss or collision in a school zone, more than half of which involved a child.
70% of Canadians say they have witnessed speeding in school zones, and increase from polling in 2016.
Police are also asking parents to talk with their kids to ensure they stay safe.
They provide the following advice:
-Always walk on the sidewalk
-If sidewalks are not available walk on the shoulder facing traffic
-When crossing a road use crosswalks where available
-If no crosswalks then check all ways to ensure it is safe to cross
-Teach your child to stop at the curb, look left, right and left again.
OPP note officers will continue to patrol school zones and conduct traffic enforcement.
For more tips, visit https://www.caa.ca/schoolzonesafety/
