With the return of students to school classrooms this week, Alberta RCMP are sending motorists and community members some back-to-school lessons of their own.
• Observe school zone speeds - in addition to before and after school, children are often out throughout the day at recess, lunch, and for some classes, so drive slowly throughout the entire school day
• Obey the crossing guard - crossing guards are there to keep children safe. Follow their direction as there may be a child still crossing that you cannot see
• Watch for darting children - children are small and can be easily distracted, therefore drivers must be extra vigilant and alert
• Be aware of school buses that are stopped - slow down and watch for children that may be crossing the road
• Obey all signs and parking directions in school zones - do not double park for drop off/ pick up, and do not park in a no stopping/ no parking zone, such as too close to the crosswalk, as this makes it hard for other drivers to see children who may be crossing the road
• Teach children school bus safety - children should stand well away from the road and stay back until the school bus makes a full stop and doors open; explain that they must walk at least 10 feet away when crossing in front of the bus so they can be seen
• Teach children how to walk to school safely - practice the route and discuss safety scenarios to help children be prepared; ensure children can demonstrate how to safely cross the street
Back to school is a busy time. To help everyone stay safe, RCMP ask the public to slow down on the roads and be extra vigilant during this transition back to school.
