Lloydminster RCMP are reminding drivers to look out for kids in school zones and playgrounds as students will be back for the new school year on Thursday.
Local officers are urging drivers to stay focussed, as well as encouraging parents to review road safety with their children and go over their daily route to and from school.
They are sharing several tips to keep everyone safe including the use of designated crosswalks and crossing signals where available.
Also, officers add students should:
- Remove headphones and put down the cell phone when crossing the road
- When crossing major roads, make sure that all lanes of traffic have stopped before walking across. Often drivers in the middle lanes don’t see pedestrians
- Make eye contact with the drivers before stepping out onto crosswalks
- Dress to be seen – daylight hours are decreasing, so wear brighter colours or reflective material whenever possible
- Walk on the sidewalk, or if unavailable, walk on the side of the road facing the traffic
- Walk on well-lit routes with less traffic
- Always be aware of your surroundings
Officers recommend that drivers plan ahead and leave earlier to allow extra time through school zones.
As well, officers advise that drivers:
- Be alert to children near or around crosswalks and intersections
- If a vehicle in a different lane slows or stops in front of you, slow down or stop and ensure that no one is on the crosswalk before proceeding
- Always yield to pedestrians at intersections or designated crosswalks
“This time of year is always exciting for students and parents after a great summer, so we want to make sure everyone is able to get back into the school routine in a safe manner”, says Constable Kelsey Davidge, one of the Lloydminster RCMP School Resource Officers. “Please make sure you remain aware of all surroundings when travelling around busy school zones at all times of the day.”
Lloydminster RCMP say they will be at school zones to ensure everyone has a safe return to school.