With Border City students back in the classroom, the Saskatchewan RCMP is encouraging everyone to do their part when it comes to safety.
Motorists have a responsibility while on the roads, but work to keep everyone safe this school year can also be done at home.
Saskatchewan RCMP ask parents and caregivers to remind children of their role regarding back-to-school safety.
- Crossing the road safely: Remind children to stay alert, check for oncoming vehicles, and only cross at approved crossing locations. Encourage them to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them, ensuring they are seen.
- Be aware of their surroundings: Avoiding distractions like texting or listening to music with both ear buds in can help keep a child safe in high-traffic areas.
- School bus safety: Instruct children to stay at least five big steps away from the edge of the curb while waiting for the school bus. They should only approach the bus after it has fully stopped, and the doors have opened. If children need to cross the street, they should always walk in front of the bus, staying in the driver’s line of sight.
- Biking and scootering to school safely: When biking or scootering to school, children should wear a helmet that is Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved and follow the posted traffic signs. Install a horn or bell on children’s bikes and scooters so they can alert other travellers when needed.
Whether you’re a new or experienced driver, Sask RCMP reminds everyone behind the wheel to take additional precautions when driving in and around school zones and parks.
Drivers are reminded to follow the posted speed limit in school zones, to yield to children walking, biking or scootering and obey the stop arm of school buses.
“As school zones become significantly busier next week, we’re urging all drivers to slow down and stay alert,” said Staff Sgt. Jill McLaren of the Saskatchewan RCMP’s Community Safety and Wellbeing Unit.
“Extra caution can go a long way – especially when watching for children who may be learning to navigate busy roads or finding their bus for the first time. Your attention and care can help make the start of the school year safe and positive for everyone.”
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