As the new school year begins, drivers in Kelowna are being reminded to stay vigilant and expect the unexpected on the roads.
With students returning to in-person learning after a year of remote education, there will be an increase in pedestrian and vehicle traffic around schools. This means that drivers must be extra cautious and aware of their surroundings.
According to the Kelowna RCMP, there were 1,500 collisions involving pedestrians in British Columbia last year, with 14 of them occurring in the Central Okanagan. These numbers serve as a reminder of the importance of safe driving, especially in school zones.
Sergeant Mark Booth, with the Kelowna RCMP, emphasizes the need for drivers to slow down and pay attention while driving near schools. He also reminds drivers to be aware of school buses and to stop when the flashing lights are on and the stop sign is extended.
In addition to being mindful of school zones, drivers should also be prepared for unexpected situations on the road. Children may dart out into the street or cross without looking both ways, so it is crucial for drivers to be alert and ready to react.
Parents and caregivers can also play a role in ensuring the safety of students by teaching them about road safety and practicing safe walking and biking habits.
As the school year progresses, it is important for drivers to continue to be cautious and aware of their surroundings, especially during peak drop-off and pick-up times. Let’s work together to keep our roads safe for everyone, especially our children.
