Halton Police Launch Project Safe Start 2025 for Back-to-School Safety

As students return to classrooms across Halton Region, the Halton Regional Police Service has initiated its 18th annual Project Safe Start campaign. This initiative aims to enhance road safety and remind motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians to remain vigilant as thousands of children head back to school in Burlington, Oakville, Milton, and Halton Hills.

With the start of the school year, residents can anticipate an increased police presence near schools and community safety zones. Officers will be actively monitoring traffic, enforcing speed limits, and engaging with the public to promote the central message of the campaign: Always Be Cautious — the ABCs of road safety.

Chief Stephen Tanner emphasized the significance of this time of year, stating, “We know how special September is and how excited students are to head back to the classroom, but we also must remember the need to slow down and stay alert.” He reinforced that safety is paramount for everyone on the road, whether driving, cycling, or walking. “It’s our commitment to ensure our region’s children return to school safely,” Tanner added.

Key Safety Reminders and Enforcement Efforts

The Halton Regional Police Service is dedicated to making road safety a year-round priority. The campaign underscores the importance of education and enforcement in maintaining safety throughout the region. To support this effort, police have issued several important reminders:

Using a hand-held device while driving—whether for texting, emailing, or talking—is a provincial offence under the Highway Traffic Act. Motorists must adhere to posted speed limits, particularly in community safety zones clearly marked by flashing 40 km/h signs. Additionally, drivers are required to come to a complete stop at stop signs and proceed only when it is safe. Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol or drugs, poses a significant risk and is strictly prohibited.

Residents are encouraged to report traffic violations or request enforcement in specific areas through the Halton police website. In case of emergencies, individuals should call 911.

Throughout September, the police will share safety tips and updates on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. The campaign will utilize the hashtag #SafeStart to facilitate community engagement.

Community Impact and Future Outlook

The Halton Regional Police Service ranks as the ninth-largest police service in Ontario, serving over 650,000 residents in one of the fastest-growing regions within the Greater Toronto Area. Projections indicate that the population is expected to reach 897,000 by 2031.

As families adjust to the school-year routine, Project Safe Start 2025 serves as a critical reminder that safety is a collective responsibility. By working together, the community can ensure that every child travels safely to and from school.