Smiths Falls police are asking drivers to make one small change when school returns: leave home a little earlier.
Const. Sean Keogan says September brings a sudden increase in traffic as school buses return, parents begin morning drop-offs and more children travel on foot, bicycles and scooters.
He says the change in routine can make local roads much busier almost overnight.
Police say drivers need to watch for buses, obey stop signs and traffic lights, and avoid pushing the speed limit when running late.
More children will also be walking, cycling and using scooters during the morning commute after being less visible on local streets through the summer.
Keogan says the return to school is also a good time for motorists to reset driving habits.
Those areas also protect seniors and other residents using sidewalks, crossings and mobility devices.
Keogan says police would rather prevent unsafe driving than issue tickets.
