RCMP Urge Back To School Safety

Back to school is upon us, coming up just after the long weekend, and R.C.M.P. want to remind the public to stay safe while students make their way to and from school.

Corporal Miles Hiebert says "There will be a lot of students walking to school for the first time Wednesday and adds it's important to consider whether your young one is ready to walk to school without adult supervision. If so make sure they are familiar with it and know how to do it safely and even walk it a few times with them."

Hiebert also suggests considering having a designated adult walk to school with a group of neighbourhood children or walk with a buddy.

If your child is riding the bus to school this year, Hiebert says there are a few things you can teach them to make it as safe as possible. "Wait for the bus to stop before approaching from the curb to board, remain seated when the bus is moving and always board and exit the bus at a location that provides safe access to the bus or school."

Meanwhile, Hiebert says there are two modes of transportation in rural areas that concern the R.C.M.P., one of which is students riding their bikes to school. He reminds children "Always wear a helmet, ride on the correct side of the road in the same direction as traffic, wear bright or high visibility clothing, and get off your bike and walk across busy intersections."

Hiebert also urges young motorists who are driving themselves to and from school to use extra caution, this includes wearing seatbelts, following the speed limit and not being distracted by things like stereos or other passengers.