By Liam Verster

School Zones in Effect

Grande Prairie drivers asked to be extra vigilant in school zones as classes resume

Aug 31, 2020 | 3:10 PM

It’s been nearly six months since school zones have been in effect in the Swan City, and Cpl. Candace Hrdlicka with the Grande Prairie RCMP is asking drivers to be extra vigilant this year, as classes and school zone speed limits resume in the City of Grande Prairie on September 1.

“Obviously school zone speed limits and times are very important, but that includes during the day, not just before and after school.

“We’re also asking people to watch out for children who might be darting in between vehicles or crossing at areas that are not the crosswalk. And we’re asking parents to slow down in the school zones, along with other drivers.”

She says common bad habits that creep up at the beginning of each school year include speeding, distracted driving, and parking in no parking areas that block the sight lines where kids may be crossing. Hrdlicka asks for everyone do their part this year to make sure school zones are safe for kids going to and returning home from class.

Hrdlicka adds that, along with following the posted speed limit, drivers should also be on the lookout for crossing guards, many of whom may be students themselves, and to follow their directions.

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Along with the start of school, there is also an increase of traffic that includes school buses. Hrdlicka and the RCMP ask that people be aware of buses picking up and dropping off children not just at school, but also in their neighbourhoods.

“We need to be aware that there might be increased traffic of children on the roadways, including in residential areas. So it’s really important to be aware of that, to pay extra attention and to slow down.”

She says it’s also good for parents to speak with their kids, regardless of their age, to make sure they are being safe when walking to school, getting on and off the bus, and crossing the road.