Contributed by Terrace RCMP
The first week of September means back to school for local youngsters — and the Terrace RCMP wants to help ensure kids get there safely.
As youth around the district load up their backpacks and lace up their shiny new shoes, Terrace RCMP will be running radar in school zones throughout Terrace and Thornhill, reminding drivers of the importance of slowing things down and making sure their full attention is on the roadway.
Kids are silly and excited on the first day of school,
said Staff Sergeant Michael Robinson. It’s important for drivers to put distractions away – like their cellphones, and to drive slowly through school zones. Give yourself the ability to respond to unexpected circumstances.
Police will be adding additional traffic enforcement in school zones to help ensure drivers are following the rules of the road.
Below are some facts and tips for drivers and pedestrians to consider.
Penalties in BC
• Speed in school zone $196-$253
• Speed in playground zone $196-$253
• Fail to stop for school bus $368
• Fail to yield to pedestrian $167
• Disobey school guard/patrol $167
Tips for Motorists
• Slow down! School zones have a 30 km/hr limit every school day from 8 am to 5 pm. Playground speed limits are also 30 km/hr from dawn to dusk, all year round.
• Parents dropping off their children at school must also obey school zone limits.
• It is illegal for a vehicle travelling in the same or opposite direction as a stopped school bus to pass when its red lights are flashing. Vehicles may not pass until the red lights are turned off and the stop signal arm is down.
Pedestrian Safety
Do:
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road.
• Stay alert until you have safely reached the other side of the road.
• Wear bright coloured clothing in the evening so you can be seen by motorists.
• Stop and look left –right-left around parked vehicles.
Don’t:
• Assume you have the right of way as a pedestrian.
• Become distracted with texting or listening to loud music on headphones when walking.
• Take shortcuts through parking lots.
• Accept rides from strangers.
If you have information about crime contact the Terrace RCMP at (250)638-7400 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers by telephone at 1-800-222-TIPS, online at www.terracecrimestoppers.ca.
