As thousands of students head back to class in Mississauga and Brampton this week, Peel Regional Police are ramping up their annual road safety campaign around schools — but their message for parents goes beyond traffic rules. Police are urging families to think twice before sharing back-to-school photos online, warning that even innocent posts can expose children to hidden risks.
“The first day of school is a proud moment, but photos shared online can reveal more than you think,” police said in their safety reminder. Officers cautioned parents to blur or crop out school names, street signs, or other identifying details, avoid posting personal information such as a child’s name, age, or grade, and ensure privacy settings are turned on to limit who can see their posts.
On the roads, Peel police and the City of Mississauga are bracing for the seasonal spike in traffic as quiet summer streets give way to busy school zones. Drivers, cyclists, e-scooter riders, and pedestrians are all being reminded to stay alert and expect students walking, biking, bussing, or being dropped off. With more congestion and distractions, officials warn that the risk of collisions is significantly higher.
More than 215 crossing guards will be deployed at 160 locations across Mississauga, while police say they will take a zero-tolerance approach to enforcement. Drivers who ignore bus signals, speed in school zones, or make unsafe drop-offs will face hefty fines and demerit points, with penalties starting at $400 for failing to stop behind a school bus.