As children head back to school this fall, many will be assisted by one of the more than 225,000 dedicated student volunteers across Saskatchewan who participate in the CAA School Safety Patrol program. Nationally, CAA is proud to have been there since the inception of the program in Canada in the 1920s, supporting community-based programs across the nation.
"The program operates as a partnership between teachers, police school resource officers, parent volunteers and CAA," said Lisa Wilson-Sturm, Director of Communications with CAA Saskatchewan.
"It not only promotes traffic safety, but also develops leadership and teamwork among the young patrollers."
The lengthy list of Safety Patrol alumnae includes celebrities, senior business people, and even three-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time world champion hockey star Jennifer Botterill.
"I still remember to this day the sense of responsibility, pride, and leadership I felt looking out for my classmates," said Botterill. "The dedication which the CAA School Safety Patrol Program instilled in me helped to shape my foundation even before I reached for Olympic gold."
Due to increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic around school zones, the Safety Patrol Program is more important than ever. According to a recent CAA survey, nearly 40% of Canadians say that they have noticed more unsafe driving practices within school zones over the past year.
To help ensure our children's safety, drivers should follow these important tips:
Slow down to the posted speed limit in school zones.
Watch for safety patrols and stop as required to allow children to cross the street safely.
Stop for school buses loading or unloading students, regardless of the direction you are travelling.
Obey "No Stopping" zones in front of schools. Use designated drop-off and pick-up areas only.
Be prepared to stop any time. Children do not always obey the rules of the road or notice oncoming traffic.
