Kimberley’s students return to school on Tuesday, September 8 and drivers are reminded to watch their speed in school zones, watch for school buses and obey crossing guard directions.
ICBC has prepared a tip list for both drivers and children.
For kids walking:
Map it out. Plan your child’s walking route with them ahead of time. Review street names and landmarks to orient them.
Quiz time. Make a fun, interactive game out of guessing the correct traffic signs and meanings with your child.
Set a good example. Never jaywalk or run to cross the street. Where possible, cross at intersections with a pedestrian crossing light or marked crosswalk.
Look. Make sure all vehicles have stopped before entering the road. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing, even if the walk signal is on.
Listen. Put away the electronic gadgets, cell phone and ear buds so you can hear approaching traffic that may be hard to see.
Be seen. Wear bright clothes and/or reflective gear especially at night and in poor weather.
Tips for drivers:
Every school day, unless otherwise posted, a 30-km/hr speed limit is in effect in school zones from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
When you’re dropping off your children in school zones, allow them to exit the car on the side closest to the sidewalk. Never allow a child to cross mid-block.
If a vehicle’s stopped in front of you or in the lane next to you, they may be yielding to a pedestrian, so be prepared to stop.
Watch for school buses. Vehicles approaching from both directions must stop for school buses when their lights are flashing.
Before getting into your vehicle, walk around your vehicle to make sure no small children are behind it. Always look for pedestrians when you’re backing up.