With students heading back to school, the Town of Bonnyville is sharing an important reminder from the Bonnyville RCMP to use extra caution in and around school zones and drop-off areas.
The beginning of the school year means increased traffic around local schools, with vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and school buses all sharing the road. Drop-off and pick-up areas can become congested quickly, making patience and awareness especially important.
Parents, caregivers and motorists are encouraged to keep these safety tips in mind:
- Follow all no-parking, no-stopping and designated drop-off zone signs, as well as directions from school staff or traffic-control personnel.
- Slow down and watch carefully for children, who may move unpredictably and can be difficult to see between parked vehicles.
- Keep travel lanes, crosswalks, intersections and bus zones clear.
- Whenever possible, have children exit the vehicle onto the sidewalk or curb side rather than into traffic.
- Keep designated crossings clear so pedestrians and drivers have a clear view of one another.
- Put your phone away while driving. Distracted driving creates an added risk in busy school zones.
- Expect congestion during peak drop-off and pick-up times. Allow extra time and avoid rushing, aggressive driving or unsafe maneuvers.
- Remember that children may be present even when a school or drop-off area does not appear busy. Slow down, expect the unexpected and be prepared to stop.
A little extra patience and attention behind the wheel can help make the return to school safer for students, families, school staff and everyone travelling through these areas.