(Sudbury, ON) – Reminder from all of us at Greater Sudbury Online to motorist that Friday December 19, 2014 marked the beginning of winter break. We'd like to remind everyone that road safety is a shared responsibility. Motorists are reminded that children will be outside all throughout the day.

For Drivers:

• The last day of school is an exciting time for children and they may become preoccupied and forget the rules of the road

• Be ready to stop at all times. Children do not always notice oncoming traffic. Smaller children are less predictable and harder to see

• Watch for clues, a hockey net or ball can mean kids are playing nearby

• Always try to make eye contact with children waiting to cross the road.

• Be patient and wait for children to complete their crossing before proceeding

• Always watch for children as you are backing up. Walk around your vehicle to make sure no small children are behind it.

For Parents:

• Teach your children to make eye contact with the driver before they cross the road, even if the walk signal is on.

• Stop before stepping into the road

• Look in all directions before crossing

• Stop, Look and Listen for traffic

• Cross safely when the road is clear

• Walk, don’t run, across the road

• Don’t Jaywalk. Teach your children to cross at intersections that have a marked crosswalk

• Avoid unnecessary shortcuts like walking through a parking lot. Drivers may not see children between parked cars and the children may not see the cars moving

Motorists are urged to slow down and be alert on roadways, particularly when travelling through residential areas and school zones.

Have a safe and happy holiday from everyone at the Greater Sudbury Online!