Students in Rocky View will soon be heading back to the classroom and Canada’s Public Health Agency is warning kids and parents to be alert to guarantee a safe beginning to the school year.
David Butler-Jones, Canada’s chief public health doctor, released a report with tips for parents to ensure their children transition back to school without incident.
“Whether they travel on foot, by bicycle, by bus or by car, it’s important to teach your child how to get to school safely,” he said.
Pedestrians must remain vigilant during the coming weeks, said Cst. Rob Frizzell of the Airdrie RCMP.
“Pedestrian safety with kids is definitely important,” he said. “Fall tends to be a dangerous time for kids heading back.”
Drivers need to be aware of school zones going into effect and the accompanying fines if caught speeding. Fines range from $57 to $351 and a court summons if caught speeding through a school or playground zone. Playground zones run from sunrise to sunset and school zones generally run 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Frizzell encourages parents to do a dry run of their child’s route to school, helping kids learn their new path.
“Let them know this is where the crosswalk is, where cars turn, or a culvert, or running water,” he said.
“That way, there won’t be as much anxiety when they do the maiden voyage.”
Various road projects and farm equipment mean people should exercise caution and be aware while driving on highways and range roads.
When walking to school, especially on rural routes, it is important for kids to stay on a separate walkway, or as far on the shoulder as possible. Students should also walk facing traffic so they can see cars approaching.
Use crosswalks whenever possible and give cars adequate time to stop before you step onto the road.
Children should take five steps back when a bus approaches and avoid horseplay.
Ralph McCall Elementary in Airdrie opened Aug. 19 while the rest of Rocky View Schools begin Aug. 31.
