Ontario’s education minister has instructed licensed daycare providers to take immediate action to block off parking spaces directly next to child-care facilities following a tragic incident where a toddler lost his life in a daycare north of Toronto due to an SUV crash.
In a memorandum addressed to daycares, Paul Calandra emphasized the importance of enhancing safety for children and child-care providers by preventing access to parking spaces near daycare entryways, playgrounds, windows, and classroom walls during operational hours until further safety measures are put in place.
The memo recommends the use of temporary barriers like pylons, signage, and staff vehicles to restrict parking, excluding accessible parking spots. This directive follows a recent incident in Richmond Hill, Ontario, where a vehicle collided with a daycare, resulting in the death of a 1 1/2-year-old boy and injuries to several others.
York Regional Police reported that one of the critically injured children has been discharged from the hospital. Calandra specified that daycare centers already equipped with vehicle barriers or those situated within private residences can retain their adjacent parking spaces. However, he urged daycare providers operating in leased properties to engage with landlords to discuss implementing safety measures.
In his communication, Calandra emphasized the swift implementation of these safety protocols and encouraged daycare facilities to assess any potential risks near driveways or roundabouts. The government is actively identifying vulnerabilities that may necessitate permanent solutions, such as installing bollards, planters, or raised curbs outside daycares.
Calandra assured that daycares facing challenges in executing these changes can report their difficulties, and the government is exploring various options to facilitate the installation of protective barriers. This includes considering legislative or regulatory adjustments to overcome any existing municipal or landlord restrictions hindering the installation process.
