Newmarket scrambling to ensure there are crossing guards May 19 after 10 guards did not show up previous day

Company spokesperson could not immediately be reached for comment

yorkregion.com
May 23, 2023

The Town of Newmarket is working to ensure there are crossing guards at locations across town May 19 after 10 guards did not report for work at their posts the previous day.

“Without providing notice to the Town of Newmarket, the crossing guards employed by a third party contractor failed to be present for their shift at 10 locations in Newmarket this afternoon (May 18),” the town said in a statement sent out at about 7 p.m. on May 18.

“The town is working to ensure there is coverage for students tomorrow (May 19). All other locations continue to be covered by Newmarket staff. More information will be provided when available.”

The locations are:

• Patterson Street and Red Deer Street
• Ford Wilson Boulevard and Woodspring Avenue
• Prince Charles School and Srigley Street
• London Road and Osmond Crescent
• Ford Wilson Boulevard and Dowson Loop
• Woodspring Avenue and Bonshaw Avenue
• Gorham Street and Muriel Street
• College Manor Drive and Hollander Road
• Woodspring Avenue and Aspenwood Drive
• Bonshaw Avenue and Spruce Grove Crescent

 

The crossing guards are provided through a contract with the town with Neptune Security Services Inc.

A company spokesperson was not immediately available for comment at 7:20 a.m. on May 20.

The town provided the following safety information in its statement.

Student and parents are asked to keep these safe crossing tips in mind:

Look both ways before you cross the street.

Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to convey your intentions.

Always press the button for the walk signal (if available). This alerts the signal equipment you are there and will increase the time you have to cross.

If you are not sure you have enough time to walk across the street, don't take the chance - wait for the next cycle.

Avoid using any device that distracts you or impairs your hearing such as a music player or cell phone.

Ensure you have a good range of vision. Clothing with hoods can obstruct your peripheral vision and prevent you from seeing approaching vehicles.

Wear bright clothing or reflective materials, especially at night. Dark clothing may be fashionable but is almost impossible to see in the dark.

Avoid stepping out from between parked cars. Many parked vehicles, such as minivans or SUVs, can totally obstruct a driver's view of a pedestrian. 

Motorists are reminded to use caution when approaching intersections and crosswalks:

Please STOP at stop signs and only proceed when it is clear and safe to do so.

Watch for pedestrians who maybe walking against their signal, who need more time to cross, or may be distracted.

Be cautious when turning into an intersection, particularly in school zones at night, or when bright light may affect your view

Watch for pedestrians stepping out between parked vehicles.

Slow down on residential streets and in school zones - remember the speed limit is a maximum, you don't have to drive to the limit.

For more information on pedestrian and motorist safety tips, visit newmarket.ca/safetydriven