A Back-to-School Reminder for Everyone

RICHMOND HILL— Richmond Hill neighbourhoods will soon be bustling as students return to school. Whether you're walking, wheeling, taking the bus or driving, everyone plays a role in keeping school zones safe. Here are some important reminders:

In School Zones
Slow down and stay alert. Watch carefully for children who may cross the street unexpectedly or step out between parked cars. Put your phone away and avoid distractions so you can focus on the road. And remember, stopping for a crossing guard is the law, so wait until pedestrians and the crossing guard are safely back on the sidewalk before proceeding.

Walking to School
Students can stay safe on the way to and from school by being fully aware of their surroundings and putting away phones, headphones and other devices. Stop at the curb, look both ways, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing, using designated crosswalks and intersections wherever possible. Wearing bright or reflective clothing helps drivers see you, especially in poor weather or low light.

Parking and Drop-Off
Follow all posted signs and parking restrictions, including No Parking and No Stopping zones, which are designated for school buses and emergency vehicles. Please do not block private driveways, fire routes, or hydrants. Where possible, consider walking, cycling, taking the bus or carpooling to help ease congestion around schools. Parking Enforcement Officers monitor school zones regularly throughout the year, and tickets will be issued to help keep everyone safe.

Have a parking concern? Report it to Parking Enforcement at parking@richmondhill.ca or 905-771-8840.

E-Bikes and E-Scooters
As more students use e-bikes and e-scooters, it's important to know the rules. In Richmond Hill, it is illegal to ride an e-scooter under 16 years old, you must wear a helmet, and your device must have a maximum speed of 24 km/h. E-scooters are not permitted on sidewalks, in parks or on trails. They may be ridden on public roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less and in cycling facilities such as bike lanes, cycle tracks, and multi-use paths. E-bike riders must also be at least 16 and wear a helmet, within permitted locations depending on the type of e-bike.

For everyone's safety, follow the rules of the road, stay aware of traffic, slow down and give extra space near pedestrians, and park your device where it won't block sidewalks or pedestrians.

Watch our safety videos and learn more about the rules for e-bikes, e-scooters and other devices at RichmondHill.ca/Micromobility.

Become a Crossing Guard
Crossing guards play an important role in helping students get to and from school safely. Make a difference in your community and apply today to become a Richmond Hill crossing guard. Learn more and apply at jobs.richmondhill.ca.

Let's all do our part to keep Richmond Hill's school zones safe this year.