Motorists are being reminded to slow down in school zones now that summer vacation is over and children are back in the classroom.
School zones speeds of 30 km/hr are back in effect on school days from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“Everyone needs to slow down and pay special attention when in a school zone,” said Chilliwack RCMP Cpl. Daryl Dalby. “Even if it looks like there are no children on the sidewalks, they can jump out from between parked vehicles or from where you don’t expect them.”
The Safer City road safety program, which includes the City of Chilliwack, Chilliwack RCMP, Speed Watch and ICBC will be focusing extra attention on school zones this fall. Speed Watch volunteers will be working in conjunction with the Chilliwack RCMP to monitor and enforce driver behaviour in school zones.
A motorist speeding within a 30 km/hr school zone could face fines and potential points on his or her record, and depending on speed, could face having their vehicle impounded for seven days.
Pedestrian safety is both the driver and pedestrian’s responsibility. Children’s physical and mental capacities are still developing well into their teens and they are often unable to make safe judgments about pedestrian safety.
Parents are reminded to talk with their children about what to do before crossing the road. Teach your child to use their eyes and their ears, to always ‘stop, think, look and listen,’ even if there is a crossing guard or traffic signal.
Distractions are equally dangerous for both drivers and pedestrians — put away cell phones and take out ear buds.
The Chilliwack Safer City program is a partnership between the City of Chilliwack, Chilliwack RCMP and ICBC. For road safety information please visit www.safercity.ca.