Excitement is buzzing as students head back to school across Alberta.
In Bonnyville, the RCMP is reminding parents, caregivers and motorists to be extra cautious around school drop-off areas.
Officials said the start of the new educational year brings with it an increase in traffic around schools, with more vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and school buses sharing the road. Police said drop-off areas can become congested fast and are reminding drivers that taking a few extra seconds can help prevent a collision.
The Bonnyville RCMP has issued the following safety tips and reminders:
- Obey ‘no-parking’, ‘no-stopping’ and designated drop-off zone signs, as well as any directions from school staff or traffic control personnel. Kids might move unpredictably and can be difficult to see between vehicles. Slow down and watch carefully for cyclists and pedestrians.
- Avoid stopping in travel lanes, crosswalks, intersections, bus zones, or other areas where stopping is not allowed. When possible, have children exit the vehicle onto the sidewalk or curb side instead of into traffic.
- Keep designated crossings clear so pedestrians can see oncoming vehicles, and drivers can see pedestrians.
- Put your phone away, as distracted driving puts everyone at risk.
- Congestion is anticipated during busy drop-off and pick-up times, so motorists are asked to avoid rushing, aggressive driving or unsafe maneuvering to get around other vehicles.
- Children can be present even when a school drop-off area does not appear busy, so drivers are asked to slow down, expect the unexpected, and be ready to stop.
More back to school safety tips are on the Alberta RCMP Facebook and Twitter pages.
