FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - With students set to return to classrooms next week, School District 60 and ICBC are reminding drivers, parents and caregivers to take extra precautions as school zones become busier.
As thousands of students head back to school across the Peace Region on Tuesday, September 8, ICBC is urging motorists to slow down, avoid distractions and stay alert for children walking, cycling and riding scooters.
ICBC reminds drivers that, unless otherwise posted, a 30 km/h speed limit is in effect in school zones from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days.
Playground zones also have a 30 km/h speed limit that applies every day from dawn to dusk.
Watch for Young Pedestrians
Drivers are also being reminded to watch carefully for school buses. When a school bus has its flashing lights activated, vehicles approaching from both directions must stop.
According to ICBC, distracted and inattentive driving is a leading cause of crashes involving pedestrians and cyclists.
Motorists are encouraged to put away their phones, watch for children near roads and crosswalks, and proceed cautiously when another vehicle stops, as it may be yielding to a pedestrian.
Drivers should also check around their vehicles before backing up and ensure headlights, brake lights and turn signals are working properly as daylight hours begin to shorten.
Safety Lessons for Students
ICBC is encouraging parents and caregivers to review pedestrian safety with their children before the start of the school year.
Key reminders include stopping at the curb, looking in both directions for traffic, making eye contact with drivers and crossing only when it is safe to do so.
Children should also stay focused on their surroundings while walking, cycling or riding scooters and avoid distractions that could prevent them from noticing approaching traffic.
Safe Pickups and Drop-Offs
Parents who drive their children to school are being asked to use designated drop-off areas whenever possible.
ICBC recommends children exit vehicles on the side closest to the sidewalk and advises against stopping in no-parking areas or blocking crosswalks, where visibility can be limited.
With the first day of classes approaching, officials are encouraging everyone to slow down, stay alert and help ensure a safe start to the school year for students across School District 60.