Twice a day in Thunder Bay, School Crossing Guards help over 1100 students get to and from school by ensuring safe crossing of busy city streets.

The City of Thunder Bay and its School Crossing Guards are imploring the public to be aware of the school zones and slow down.

“In the first two weeks of the new school year, 12 vehicles drove through school crosswalks while the Crossing Guard was in the intersection with a raised stop sign,” said Michelle Riemer, Field Supervisor – Crossing Guards. “This is not only extremely dangerous for the children and the Crossing Guard, but also puts the driver at risk of serious fines and penalties.”

She added that according to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation drivers who fail to yield at a school crossing face fines of up to $1000 and 4 demerit points.

Please help the Crossing Guards protect children getting to and from school with the following guidance:

  • Stop when a School Crossing Guard raises his or her stop sign. All drivers and cyclists must comply.
  • Take notice of and follow all speed limits, especially in school zones.
  • Only proceed when everyone, including the Guard has returned to the curb.
  • Pay attention to NO Stopping and NO Parking signs – park in designated areas only.

The City of Thunder Bay is currently looking to hire more crossing guards. For those that want to make a difference, visit: www.thunderbay.ca/crossingguards or call 621-5395 for more information on being a Crossing Guard, or visit thunderbay.ca/jobs to apply directly. 

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Contact:       Michelle Riemer, Field Supervisor – Crossing Guards, 621-5395