Today marked the launch of a new safety awareness initiative in Timmins. It’s called the “I Stop you Stop” campaign and it’s goal is to raise awareness about the importance of drivers stopping for the school bus. The campaign is being set up by the Timmins Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police and the Bus Buddies Committee.

Police cars and an army of yellow school buses were the backdrop for school kids promoting the start of the initiative today. They carried the I Stop You Stop banner before boarding a bus for a trip for hot chocolate.

Ryan Harting, President of the Bus Buddies Committee, says school buses are carrying precious cargo and drivers should always be alert when they see a bus on the road. “You know, school buses are carrying precious cargo. When the bus stops, as a motorist, you have to stop for the stop lights,” he said during a press event today. “Try not to be distracted and be aware of your surroundings.” 

Multiple incidents have occurred where drivers have failed to abide by the rules of the road in stopping when a school bus is stopped, with lights flashing and stop-arm extended. Drivers that don’t abide by the rules of the road when it comes to school buses face a heavy fine and loose six demerit points. Anyone who sees a vehicle that does not stop for a school bus should contact the police immediately.

Over 12,000 kids take the bus to and from school every day in this Region and over 800,000 students ride the bus in Ontario.