Wood Buffalo RCMP release list of safety reminders for back-to-school
With schools across Wood Buffalo scheduled to reopen fully on Sept. 8, Wood Buffalo RCMP released a list of safety tips for residents.
Police said motorists must pay greater attention to the increases in vehicular traffic, cyclists, and pedestrian traffic.
- Be aware of school buses that are stopped: Stop your vehicle and do not pass a school bus that is flashing alternating red lights.
- Observe school zone speeds: Children will be out throughout the day for recess, lunch, some classes, not just before and after school. Slower speeds can improve the reaction times of drivers.
- Obey the crossing guard: Follow their direction as a child, particularly a small child, may still be crossing where you cannot see.
- Watch for children between vehicles who may enter the roadway.
- When pedestrians are crossing the street, come to a complete stop before the crosswalk: Do not block a crosswalk with your vehicle or park within 10 metres.
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RCMP also remind drivers to obey all signs and parking directions in school zones.
Motorists cannot double park in the drop-off and pick-up lanes nor park in the no stopping or parking zones, or near a crosswalk.
Wood Buffalo RCMP said parents have a part to play in teaching their children about road safety.
When waiting for a school bus, police recommend children stand away from the road and wait for the school bus to make a complete stop and the doors to open.
Children must walk more than 10 feet away when crossing in front of the bus upon exiting so the driver can see them.
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Parents can prepare their children by practising the route to school and discussing other safety scenarios.
RELATED: Grade 4-12 students required to wear masks on RMWB Transit
Alberta schools are open for staggered re-entry from Aug. 31-Sept. 4, 2020.
Schools officially open for all students and grades on Sept. 8, 2020.