Summer vacation is coming to an end and children will soon be returning to school. CAA Saskatchewan reminds drivers to slow down and to be extra aware of children on foot, on bicycles, near buses and in school zones. "Children can be easily distracted, especially with the excitement of returning to school, and catching up with friends and classmates they haven't seen for awhile," says Christine Niemczyk, Director of Communications with CAA Saskatchewan. "The students may just not be as attentive as usual; they've been away from school for two months and are adjusting to schedules and new routines. As drivers, we need to be especially cautious around schools and playgrounds to help keep our children safe." Drivers should follow these important tips:
Slow down to the posted limit in school zones.
Be prepared to stop for safety patrols at intersections and crosswalks.
Always stop for school buses that are loading or unloading students.
Obey "No Stopping" zones in front of schools. Use designated drop-off and pick-up areas only.
Watch for children darting out from between parked cars, school buses or buildings.
Teach children to always stop, look both ways and listen before crossing the street; wait for the signal of the school safety patroller when crossing the street near schools. Since 1951, CAA Saskatchewan has coordinated the School Safety Patrol Program which as a partnership between CAA, the police, school boards, teachers, and parents, helps students to learn about road safety. Patrollers have an opportunity to work in a team environment to help develop their leadership skills and become role models in their community. In Saskatchewan, there are 4500 CAA School Safety Patrollers who are sharing their pedestrian and traffic safety knowledge with their classmates. To find out more about the CAA School Safety Patrol Program or to enroll your school, please visit caask.ca/about-caa/caa-social-responsibility/school-safety.
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