Fort Erie encouraging residents to celebrate crossing guards

Brent Jones
March 11, 2025 at 5:29 PM

The Town of Fort Erie is encouraging residents to recognize local crossing guards during Crossing Guard Appreciation Week, which takes place from June 2 to 6, 2025.

The annual event, held in partnership with the Ontario Traffic Council, acknowledges the work of crossing guards across the province who help children travel safely to and from school each day.

“Our school crossing guards are true community heroes, braving all kinds of weather to ensure the safety of our children,” said Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop in a news release.

“Their dedication and service play a vital role in making Fort Erie a safe and welcoming place for families. On behalf of the Town of Fort Erie, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for their commitment and encourage all residents to join us in celebrating their efforts during Crossing Guard Appreciation Week,” he continued.

According to the release, the Town currently employs 17 crossing guards and offers a free in-school road safety program for Grade 3 students.

The release also reminded residents to show their support by following traffic laws designed to protect crossing guards and pedestrians. Under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, all vehicles and cyclists must stop and wait until both children and the crossing guard have fully cleared the roadway before proceeding.

Drivers are asked to stop when a crossing guard raises their stop sign, slow down when approaching school crossing locations, remain stopped until all pedestrians and the guard have exited the roadway, and obey posted speed limits while avoiding stopping or parking in restricted areas.

For more information on becoming a crossing guard in Fort Erie, visit forterie.ca or contact engineering@forterie.ca.