Mayor Jeff Leal Endorses Automated Speed Enforcement Ban

Following the Ontario government's announcement that it plans to introduce legislation to ban automated speed enforcement cameras across the province late last month, Mayor Jeff Leal has endorsed this move, releasing a statement on Monday evening.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his government announced that they will table legislation this month.

Leal has issued the following statement regarding Automated Speed Enforcement:

“I have sent a letter to Premier Ford to request that the provincial government continue to allow Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras in school zones.

I join with many other mayors across Ontario who have come together to propose the same exemption for prospective legislation dealing with this issue.

Peterborough City Council’s priority is the safety of children. We believe the implementation of ASE cameras will ensure the greatest safety level possible for our most vulnerable residents.

Our children will always remain our top priority when it comes to safety.”

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Police Issue 17 Tickets During School Rushes From Tuesday In Peterborough and the Kawarthas

The Peterborough Police Service and its Traffic Unit issued 17 tickets across Peterborough, Lakefield, and Cavan-Monaghan during the Tuesday morning and after-school rush.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Peterborough: 12 tickets issued

• Speeding including one driver going 73km/h in a 40km/h zone

• Fail to Stop

• Cellphone Use

Lakefield: four tickets issued

• Speeding including one driver going 76km/h in a 40km/h zone

• Fail to Stop

Cavan-Monaghan: one ticket issued

• Speeding

Officers also issued three warnings to motorists.

Officers are continuing to conduct traffic enforcement in school zones as students return from summer break.

The Back-to-School enforcement campaign will continue over the next few weeks.

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Peterborough County School Zones to See Increased Traffic Enforcement

As students return to classrooms, an increase in traffic enforcement in school zones is occurring throughout Peterborough County this fall.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough County.

The County reminds drivers to take extra precautions in school zones which include slowing down, planning to leave early, giving at least one metre of clearance to cyclists and stopping for school buses.

“As students return to the classroom, our roads will be shared by more cars, buses, cyclists, and pedestrians,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. “This year, Peterborough County has taken extra steps to enhance road safety features and policies for school zones on County Roads. Please drive with extra caution in all school zones by staying alert, slowing down, and stopping for buses and pedestrians. Together, we can ensure a safe and successful school year for all students.”

The OPP and Peterborough Police Service would like to remind motorists of the following:

1. You must stop for stopped school buses with lights flashing.

2. Speeding in a school zone can result in fines and demerit 
   points. Speeding in Community Safety Zones results in double the fine.

3. Crossing guards have the right to stop traffic at crosswalks – abide by their direction.

4. Motorists must wait until the crossing guard is no longer on the roadway before proceeding.

5. Drivers on multi-lane, undivided highways must stop for stopped school buses when their overhead red signal lights are flashing. This applies to both directions of traffic on roads without a median or physical barrier separating opposing lanes.

To keep school children safe, both the OPP and the Peterborough Police Service are monitoring the area and issuing tickets as required for offences in school zones and/or community safety zones.

“As the 2025–26 school year kicks off, children are full of excitement to see friends and start new adventures, while parents are juggling the return of early mornings, packed schedules, and structured routines,” said Inspector Chris Galeazza, OPP Detachment Commander. “The Peterborough County OPP reminds all drivers not to let the chaos and excitement of the season distract from the responsibility to drive safely. Stop for school buses, obey crossing guards, and stay alert for carefree children on sidewalks. Let’s make sure everyone gets where they’re going safely.”

“As another school year begins, we want it to be a safe time for students whether they are walking, cycling, or taking the bus,” Stuart Betts, Peterborough Police Service Chief. “We are asking motorists to please be aware of traffic calming measures and Community Safety Zones, which come with slower speeds and increased fines. Community Safety Zones are located, exclusively, in neighbourhoods where a school is located, or other location where children are present, so let that be your guide about the expected presence of children.  It’s a very exciting time of year and we ask for patience as students, crossing guards and school buses return for the school year.”

As part of the County’s Transportation Master Plan (TMP), new policies have been developed to enhance safety and consistency across school zones in Peterborough County.

These policies include:

• School Signage & Pavement Markings Policy

• Community Safety Zone Policy

The Peterborough County Engineering & Construction division reviewed 12 school zones on or adjacent to County Roads. Here's what you can now expect:

• New school pavement markings

• New radar speed signs

• Speed limit reductions

• Established Community Safety Zones where criteria was met

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Beavermead Park Beach to Host Drowning Prevention Event This Friday

A drowning prevention education event is taking place at Beavermead Park Beach this Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to mark National Drowning Prevention Week.  

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

National Drowning Prevention Week runs from July 21 to July 26. City Hall will be lit up in blue to raise awareness about water safety and drowning prevention throughout the week.  

The event at Beavermead Park Beach features interactive displays, information on obtaining a Basic First Aid certificate, an opportunity to try on a lifejacket, prizes, games, and activities focusing on water safety, as well as a chance to meet Buddy the Lifeguard Dog Mascot. 

The event is run in partnership between the City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, Balsillie Family YMCA, Lifesaving Society Ontario Peterborough, the Ontario Provincial Police, Peterborough Fire Services, Peterborough Police Service, Peterborough County-City Paramedics and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. 

Other events will take place across the City throughout the week, including pop-up information booths at Fleming College, Trent University and the Balsillie Family YMCA.  

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City Council Approves Automated Speed Enforcement In Designated Community/Safety Zones

City Council approved implementing automated speed enforcement in selected designated Safety Zones and/or Community Safety Zones in Peterborough with four speed enforcement cameras in 2025/2026 for an initial two-year period during their meeting on Tuesday night.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) is a technology-enabled enforcement tool comprised of a camera and a speed measurement device. It enforces the maximum posted speed by capturing photographs of vehicles exceeding it.

In Ontario, ASE cameras are strategically positioned in School Zones (SZs) and Community Safety Zones (CSZs) to promote and improve community traffic and pedestrian safety. Offences captured by ASE systems are reviewed and certified by Provincial Offences Officers and issued to the vehicle’s registered owner. This enforcement tool aims to reduce vehicles' excessive speed and complement existing educational, engineered, and other speed reduction measures.

A review of research studies on the effectiveness of ASE programs, published by Ontario municipalities, shows that ASE is an effective tool for reducing a driver’s speed and improving community safety. The municipalities in the review included the City of Ottawa, the City of Guelph, and the City of Toronto. 

Staff proposes a phased deployment, securing four cameras in 2025/2026 for an initial two-year period. This approach will allow staff to validate site selection, compliance rate, camera rotation logistics, cost/revenue, and provide the opportunity to evaluate the program to inform future expansion.

The Ministry of Transportation Ontario has the final decision-making power regarding a municipality's ability to operate an ASE program. This decision is ultimately based on necessity and a demonstrated need for that municipality to reduce traffic or speeding incidents within its jurisdiction.

In June 2023, Council approved a City-wide speed limit reduction in school areas and the implementation of Community Safety Zones (CSZs) at 30 elementary and secondary schools within its jurisdiction. Results of a post-implementation vehicle speed and compliance study revealed an average operating speed reduction of 6.5 km/h. However, the average operating speed is 11.5 km/h above the 40 km/h posted speed.

Implementing an Automated Speed Enforcement program in school areas and Community Safety Zones will cost approximately $489,000, funds for which are available in the uncommitted balance of the approved 2025 Capital Budget for Red Light Camera—Automated Speed Enforcement says the City.

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Peterborough Police Urge Public to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day Responsibly; Increased Presence of Officers Throughout City and Kawarthas

The Peterborough Police Service is asking residents choosing to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day responsibly as weighted police presence will be in the City and throughout the Kawarthas.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough St. Patrick's Day Parade.

The extra officers will occupy the City of Peterborough, Village of Lakefield and Township of Cavan-Monaghan to respond to an anticipated increase in calls for service, such as noise or disturbance calls.

RIDE check stops will happen throughout the day and evening.

The Police remind the public to not drive impaired and ensure a safe ride home at the end of the evening.

Options for safe rides home include:

• Selecting a designated driver in your group

• Arrange a ride ahead of time

• Stay overnight if possible

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Peterborough Police Service Launch Pedestrian Safety Campaign

The Peterborough Police Service has launched a pedestrian safety campaign that encourages everyone to walk safe, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

This campaign is in partnership with Peterborough Public Health, the City of Peterborough and Peterborough County/  

Whether travelling on a city street or using a rural roadway, the safety of all road users should be front and center. Peterborough Police over the coming weeks will release essential safety tip.

From families on their morning trip to school to someone walking to the bus stop to get to work or even the short trip one may make from the parking garage to a shop, each of us makes many walk or roll trips each day.

In 2024, there were 44 pedestrian-involved collisions in the Peterborough Police Service policing areas (City of Peterborough, Village of Lakefield, Township of Cavan-Monaghan), with 39 of them (89 per cent) resulting in injury. In local OPP-patrolled areas, there was one pedestrian-involved collision that resulted in one death and one person injured. 

The Peterborough Police’s goal of releasing these safety tips is to reduce the risk to those walking, running, or rolling on city and rural roads, as well as minimize their exposure to hazards.   

There are tried and true Pedestrian Safety Tips that help everyone to #walksafe: 

1. Be Visible  

• Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing: Choose clothing in bright colors (such as neon or white) or wear reflective gear, especially if walking during low-light conditions (dawn, dusk, or night) or inclement weather conditions.  

• Carry a Flashlight or Headlamp: If walking in the dark, use a flashlight or headlamp to help you see and be seen by drivers.  

• Use Reflective Accessories: Consider adding reflective tape or vests to your clothing or gear, making you more visible from a distance.  

2. Walk Facing Traffic  

• Face Oncoming Vehicles: On streets without sidewalks, always walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic so you can see approaching vehicles and take action if necessary.  

• Stay Alert: Minimize distractions by only having one headphone in and low volume. If you need to text, stop, text and then continue walking when you are done. 

3. Stay on the Shoulder  

• Use the Shoulder: Walk on the shoulder of the road, as far away from moving vehicles as possible.  

• Give Passing Vehicles Space: When cars or trucks pass by, stay as far off the roadway as possible to give them plenty of space.  

4. Choose Safe Walking Routes  

• Select the Safest Routes: Choose roads with the least amount of traffic or where traffic moves slower. If high-speed roads are your only option, please choose to be extra cautious. Consider roads that have wider shoulders or clearer visibility for drivers. Be alert at curves or areas with limited sight lines.  

5. Cross Safely  

• Use Marked Crossings When Available:  If no designated crossings are present, choose the safest location to cross with good visibility for both pedestrians and drivers.  

• Look Both Ways Before Crossing: Always check for oncoming traffic in both directions, even if the road seems clear. Don’t assume vehicles will stop for you.  

• Don’t Rush the Hand: Give yourself plenty of time to cross at intersections and designated crosswalks.  

6. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions  

• Adapt to Weather Changes: In poor weather (rain, fog, snow), visibility is reduced. Wear more reflective gear, and if conditions are severe, consider postponing walking if you can.  

• Stay Alert: Be aware of how conditions may impact vehicles. Poor weather may impact vehicles’ ability to stop or steer. Walk with extra caution, particularly when there is no sidewalk or crossing the street.  

7. Carry Identification  

• Carry ID and Emergency Info: Always carry identification and a phone with emergency contacts, especially if walking in more remote areas where help may not be readily available.  

8. Limit/Avoid Walking at Night  

• Utilize Well-Lit Roads: When possible, stick to roads and sidewalks that are well-lit during night or times or low light. 

• Limit Nighttime Walking: If possible, avoid walking after dark, especially on rural roads as visibility is low, and drivers may not expect pedestrians. If walking is unavoidable, ensure you have sufficient lighting and reflective gear. 

9. Be Cautious Around Large Vehicles 

• Watch Out for Large Vehicles: Rural roads and areas near construction zones are often utilized by large trucks, farm equipment, and other heavy vehicles. Be extra cautious, as these vehicles require more space and have longer stopping distances.  

• Give Farm Vehicles Extra Space: Always give farm equipment plenty of room, especially when it’s traveling at slow speeds or taking up the whole road.  

Motorists also have an active role to play in pedestrian safety. Motorists are reminded to: 

Be Alert for Pedestrians 

• In the dark or inclement weather, pedestrians may be less visible. Be alert and aware of other road users.  

• Remember to check for pedestrians crossing at intersections. Do a double check when making turns, as a pedestrian may arrive while you’ve been looking for a gap in traffic. 

• If a crossing guard is present, follow their instructions. Be patient and remember that stop means stop.  It’s important that cars remain stopped at crosswalks until everyone is back on the sidewalk.  

Be Aware of the Posted Speed Limit 

• Slow down and give space to pedestrians on roadways  

• Speed limits in many City and County school areas are reduced, be mindful of students walking or rolling to and from school 

• Community Safety Zones are established to provide awareness of higher concentrations of vulnerable road users, speeding fines can be doubled in these areas. 

 Be Mindful of Weather Conditions  

• Adapt to Weather Changes: In poor weather (rain, fog, snow), visibility is reduced, and road conditions may be impacted. Leave yourself extra space and extra time to travel. 

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Douro-Dummer Fire Services and Enbridge Gas Partners Partner to Reduce Fire and Carbon Monoxide Deaths

Enbridge Gas Inc. and Douro-Dummer Fire Services (DDFS) have partnered to improve home safety and reduce fire—and carbon monoxide-related deaths to zero, announced at Douro-Dummer Fire Station 2 on Monday afternoon.

(From left to right) Chuck Pedersen, Douro-Dummer Fire Chief; Heather Watson, Douro-Dummer mayor; Derrick Huffman, Douro-Dummer Deputy Chief of Fire Services and Jeff Braithwaite, Enbridge Gas operations supervisor. Over the past 16 years, the program has provided more than 101,000 alarms to Ontario fire departments. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

According to a press release, Douro-Dummer Fire Services received 114 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms through Safe Community Project Zero. The project is a public education campaign with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC) that will provide more than 14,500 alarms to residents in 75 communities across Ontario.

Enbridge Gas invested $450,000 in Safe Community Project Zero this year.

“The best way to reduce potential exposure to carbon monoxide is to properly maintain fuel-burning equipment,” said Jeff Braithwaite, Enbridge Gas operations supervisor. “These alarms are a critical second line of defense against carbon monoxide poisoning, known as ‘the silent killer.’ We’re proud to support our communities and raise awareness and help Ontarians implement these protection strategies.”

When properly installed and maintained, combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms help provide early warning to safely escape from a house fire or carbon monoxide exposure. Carbon monoxide is a toxic, odourless gas that is a by-product of incomplete combustion of many types of common fuels.

“We are excited to receive this kind of support, so we can ensure that people in their homes are protected with these life-saving devices,” said Fire Chief Chuck Pedersen.

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Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms Say City and Peterborough Fire Services

With Daylight Savings Time and the clocks springing forward one hour at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Peterborough Fire Services and the City of Peterborough are reminding residents to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when they change their clocks. 

Photo by Keegan Beekers.

“In order for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to save lives, they need to be working,” explained Fire Chief Chris Snetsinger. “When you change your clocks on Sunday, Peterborough Fire Services wants everyone to take the time to check all the alarms in their home. Check the expiry date and test every alarm. Be sure to change the batteries if you do not have a wired or 10-year battery sealed alarm.”

Residents are reminded that nine-volt batteries can be fire hazards when not stored safely. It is unsafe to store them in a drawer near paper clips, coins, pens or other batteries. Cover the positive and negative posts with masking, duct or electrical tape before disposing of the battery to be safe.

The City of Peterborough works with not-for-profit organization Call2Recycle that provides battery recycling programs nationwide to divert batteries from going to the City’s landfill according to a press release. Batteries can be dropped off at the Household Hazardous Waste Depot at 400 Pido Rd. and at locations throughout the city for safe disposal:

• City Hall, 500 George St. N.

• Peterborough Public Library, 345 Aylmer St.

• Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, 775 Brealey Dr.

Other battery drop-off locations in Peterborough:

• GreenUP Store, 378 Aylmer St.

• Kingan Home Hardware, 167 Simcoe St.

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Peterborough Fire Services Warns Public of Expired Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Following recent incidents involving expired smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in the city, Peterborough Fire Services urges all residents to ensure their alarms are functioning correctly and are not expired says the City of Peterborough.

Photo by Keegan Beekers.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms require regular checks and maintenance. Residents are reminded to look at the back of the alarm to find its manufacturing date. If the alarm is 10 years old or older, it must be replaced with the same type of alarm.

Key information regarding smoke and carbon monoxide alarms:

• Smoke alarms need to be replaced every 10 years.

• Homeowners play a crucial role in maintaining their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms which are vital for home safety.

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every floor of your home, including the basement. If possible, interconnect all alarms so that if one goes off, they all do.

• When replacing your alarm, opt for the same type of alarm, preferably interconnected and hardwired.

• Ensure any new alarms installed have the CSA and UL seal of approval.

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