Students return to class: Fort St. John RCMP emphasize safety amid increased traffic

FORT ST. JOHN -- As of this morning, students in Fort St. John are back in class, and the RCMP is reminding both drivers and students to prioritize safety as the new school year begins.

With the return to school, residents can expect increased foot and vehicle traffic around educational institutions within District 60.

The Fort St. John RCMP has issued several key safety reminders to ensure a secure start to the academic year.

Safety Tips for Students and Drivers:

Increased Traffic Awareness: Both drivers and pedestrians should be prepared for heightened activity around schools. Knowing your route to school and sticking to it can enhance safety and provide peace of mind for parents.

School Zone Speed Limits: Reduced speed limits of 30 km/h are now in effect from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. across School District 60. Drivers are urged to slow down in these zones, as children may unexpectedly step out from between vehicles.

Crossing Safely: Students are encouraged to cross roads at designated crosswalks or intersections and avoid darting out from between parked cars. Making eye contact with drivers before crossing is crucial for safety.

Bus and Vehicle Protocols: It is illegal to pass buses with extended stop arms or stopped vehicles allowing students to cross. This rule is strictly enforced to protect young pedestrians.

Cyclist Safety: Students riding bikes should wear helmets and adhere to road rules. Distracted riding can be as dangerous as distracted driving, so phones should be kept away while cycling.

Awareness and Distraction: Students are reminded to stay alert and remove earbuds if necessary to better hear traffic.

The RCMP will be actively patrolling school zones to ensure compliance in an effort to protect the community’s youngest members.

According to ICBC, 51 children are injured in crashes every year in school and playground zones.

“Speeding exceeded by less than 21 km/hr, starts at $196.00 and three demerit points,” said RCMP in a media release. Those caught travelling over that limit can see fines of up to $253 and three demerit points.

“The penalty for passing a school bus with red lights flashing is $368.00 and 3 demerit points. This penalty is for the vehicle that is approaching from behind the bus or any oncoming vehicle.”

A new provincially-mandated classroom cellphone ban, is now also in effect in schools across the Peace Region, which aim to reduce distractions and enhance focus during school hours. However, the rules vary between school districts.