AMPS LAUNCHES BACK-TO-SCHOOL SAFETY INITIATIVE

The Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service (AMPS) reminds drivers, parents, students, and community members to stay alert and make safety a priority as students return to school.

AMPS will launch its Back-to-School Safety Initiative, focusing on school zone enforcement, youth safety education, and community engagement to ensure a safe start to the school year. The return to school is an exciting time for our youth, but also a time where safety must be top of mind. AMPS will be working closely with schools, and community partners to make sure our children can get to and from school safely while promoting respect and responsibility on our roads.

Back-to-School Safety Alert

As students return to school, the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service (AMPS) reminds everyone to stay alert and make safety a priority — especially around school zones, bus stops, and drop-off areas.

Safety Recommendations for Drivers

• Leave early and plan ahead — give yourself extra time to avoid rushing.
• Slow down in all school zones and along bus routes.
• Stay alert for students walking or biking to school, especially near crosswalks and intersections.
• Always stop for school buses when red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended — it’s the law in Ontario, Quebec, and New York.
• Avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting devices while driving near schools and bus stops.
• Obey school drop-off/pick-up instructions and respect restricted parking zones to keep children safe.

Safety Recommendations for Students

• Arrive early to your bus stop — running after the bus can be dangerous.
• Wait safely on the sidewalk or shoulder, standing at least three giant steps back from the curb.
• Board and exit carefully — use the handrail, watch your step, and never push or shove.
• Always cross in front of the bus when the driver signals it’s safe — stay at least 10 feet ahead where the driver can see you.
• Avoid distractions like headphones or phones when getting on or off the bus.

School Bus Loading & Unloading Zones

• Restricted Drop-Off/Pick-Up Zones: Follow school rules for designated drop-off and loading areas.
• Obey posted times: Many schools have specific time restrictions to keep traffic flowing and students safe.
• Never block crosswalks, fire lanes, or school entrances — these must remain clear for emergency access.
• Follow crossing guards and school staff instructions — they are there to protect our children. 

AMPS Is Here to Help

AMPS officers will be:

• Conducting school zone patrols during morning drop-off and afternoon dismissal times.
• Monitoring loading and unloading zones to ensure compliance and student safety.
• Partnering with schools to provide student safety presentations.
  
  

By working together; parents, drivers, schools, and AMPS, we can ensure our children travel to and from school safely. Let’s make this school year a safe and successful one for everyone.

The Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service remains committed to focusing its efforts on fostering positive relationships with our community members. We encourage community support and involvement to report any suspected criminal activities. Anyone with information that would assist in any type of investigation can call Central Dispatch at 613-575-2000.