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By Sheena Roszell

Back-to-school, speed zones back in place

Sep 4, 2018 | 5:43 AM

As you rush to get the kids out the door Tuesday morning for the first day of school, you’re reminded not to rush through school zones.

The speed limit of 30 km/hr in school zones is now back in place 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on school days.

Between September 5th and September 15th last year, 876 fines were handed out in school zones for traffic safety offences, most of those were for speeding. Twenty-nine tickets were for parking violations. 

Constable Melanie McIntosh says RCMP and Enforcement Services monitor school zones all year, but they’ll have an increased presence these first few days.

“It’s been two months where you haven’t had to necessarily pay attention to school zone signs, so just a reminder school is back in session.”

Parents can help by having a chat with their school-aged children about paying attention.

“I think parents should take some time to remind their school-aged children to make sure that they look both ways before crossing the street, always use a crosswalk, and check for cars when they get off the bus,” she said. 

Kelly Kokesch, Program Manager for Enforcement Services is asking motorists to take extra care going through school zones, look at the posted speed limits and be prepared to stop. 

“Avoid distractions, use caution when backing up and watch for kids between parked vehicles. We’re also asking the parents and people who drop off children to ensure they are using the crosswalks.”

He says Peace Officers will also be out checking for parking infractions; people parking in no-stopping zones, parking in transit zones and parking too close or over top of sidewalks.

“Which is a big no-no,” he said.

 

by Sheena Roszell