Thunder Bay Police Service emphasises school traffic safety alongside community partners as the 2026/2027 school year continues

September 24, 2026

With the 2026/2027 school year underway, the Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding residents about traffic safety in school zones and all Thunder Bay roads.


Drivers should be aware of increased youth pedestrian traffic in and around school zones.


Many students will utilize city crosswalks on their journey to school. 


Drivers should ensure that they remain observant and are prepared to stop for crossing guards at crosswalks.


According to the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, drivers should wait for the crossing guard to return to the sidewalk prior to continuing their drive.


Following the Act supports safer roads while drivers can avoid the following penalties: 

(a) for a first offence, to a fine of not less than $300 and not more than $1,000; and

(b) for each subsequent offence, to a fine of not less than $500 and not more than $1,000.


School buses are also back on local roadways.


Motorists are asked to make sure they are stopping for school buses that have a sign out and lights flashing.


According to the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, every driver when approaching from the front or rear of a stopped school bus that has its stop arm actuated, shall stop and shall not proceed until the bus moves or the stop arm is no longer extended.


Following the Act protects the community while ensuring that drivers avoid the following penalties:

(a) for a first offence, to a fine of not less than $400 and not more than $2,000; and

(b) for each subsequent offence, to a fine of not less than $1,000 and not more than $4,000 or to imprisonment for a term of not more than six months, or to both.


Drivers are reminded to adhere to posted speed limits in school zones and community safety zones. Reduced speeds are in place to protect children who may be walking, cycling, or crossing the roadway during peak travel periods.


The Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit remains committed to public safety and will continue proactive enforcement to ensure the protection of students, families, and all road users.

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Thunder Bay Police Service highlighting Crime Prevention Week through education and awareness

November 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is joining police services and community partners across Ontario in recognizing Crime Prevention Week. Crime Prevention Week is an opportunity to highlight the role everyone plays in building safe and resilient communities. Crime prevention is most effective when police, community organizations, businesses, governments, and residents work together through education, awareness, reporting, and community engagement. Throughout the week, the Thunder Bay Police Service will share information, resources, and practical crime prevention tips through its social media channels. Topics will focus on ways residents can reduce their risk of victimization and contribute to community safety. Residents who witness suspicious activity or become victims of crime are encouraged to report it. Non-emergency reports can be made by calling 807-684-1200 or online at: https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports Emergencies can be reported to 911. Information provided by the public can help identify crime trends, support investigations, and address emerging community safety concerns. Follow the Thunder Bay Police Service on social media for crime prevention information, resources, and tips aimed at helping build a safer Thunder Bay.

Fraud Friday: Fraudsters posing as cell service providers in Thunder Bay area

October 30, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is warning residents after receiving a report regarding a scam in which individuals are contacted by someone claiming to be from their cell service provider. The caller may offer a phone upgrade, loyalty discount, or other promotional deal.  Using personal or account information, the scammer then orders a device through a legitimate service provider. The scammer may already possess some of the victim's personal information before making contact. After the device arrives, the victim may receive another call from someone claiming to represent the service provider. In some cases, the scammers rely on the victim contacting them directly about the unexpected shipment. In some instances, multiple devices may be shipped to the victim's address. When victims inquire about the unexpected shipment, scammers may provide a fraudulent return address or send a prepaid shipping label. The package is then redirected to an address controlled by the scammer rather than the legitimate company. Prevention Tips: · Avoid purchasing products through unsolicited phone calls. Contact the company directly to verify any offers. · Do not use unexpected return labels without confirming they are legitimate. · Contact your provider directly regarding deals. Use the official phone number on the company’s website to verify any return request. · Check your account. Review your account through the provider’s official app or website for unfamiliar orders or changes. For further information about various frauds and scams that may be circulating, please visit https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/fraud-prevention or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online at: https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm To make a fraud/cyber crime online report to the Thunder Bay Police Service, please visit: https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports/report/fraud-cybercrime