Back to school season means it’s time for a road safety refresher lesson.
Kids might not hear, see, or understand traffic the way adults do. That’s why it is important everyone is extra cautious around schools and daycares. Sidewalks, crosswalks, and roadways in the area will be busier now than they have been over the summer.
Drive safe
Remember to slow down. School zone speed limits of 30 km/h are back on September 1 around many Winnipeg schools. They are in effect weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m until the end of June.
Be aware of where you are parked or waiting. Don’t block intersections, crosswalks, bike paths, school loading areas, or driveways. Follow all parking signs around schools. They are in place to increase safety in the area. U-turns can be a safety concern, especially around children or when traffic is backed up.
When school buses are loading and the ‘stop’ sign is out, all drivers must stop. You should never pass a vehicle that is slowing down or stopping for a school bus.
Always follow the directions of school crossing guards and student patrols.
Walk safe
Regardless of how old you are, always look both ways before crossing any street. Only proceed when all vehicles are stopped. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Only cross at an intersection or crosswalk. Never cross in the middle of a block, between parked cars, or diagonally across an intersection.
Be extra careful when walking near back lanes or driveways.
Bike safe
Wearing a helmet is the law for people under 18 years old. Adults should also consider wearing one.
When biking, if you want to cross at a crosswalk, you should walk your bike across a street when safe to do so. Make eye contact with drivers that have stopped before crossing.
Use hand signals when turning so people around you know where you are going.
Chat with your children
If possible, parents or caregivers could do a practice walk or bike to school ahead of classes starting. This is a good opportunity to point out potential hazards children might face along the way. It is also a chance to help children choose safe places to cross streets when needed.
You can also use the time to talk about road safety, address any concerns they have about heading back to class, and remind them about the importance of being kind to each other.
Originally posted on September 4, 2020