With students in Nanaimo schools back in class this week, police and the school district are reminding motorists that school zone rules are in effect again.
In a press release, Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, said numerous children and youths are injured in motor vehicle crashes that take place within school zones.
“Safety must be paramount for motorists to ensure children arrive safely at school,” he said.
Drivers are asked to observe school speed zones, which are 30 kilometres an hour from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on designated school days. Playground speed limits are in effect from dawn to dusk 365 days a year, stated the press release. In addition, motorists must stop for school buses when children are boarding or exiting and red lights are flashing, regardless if they are behind the bus or approaching from the opposite direction.
Families are reminded that children need to abide by rules as well, crossing only at designated intersections, making eye contact with approaching drivers and crossing only when it is safe to do so, after vehicles have slowed down and come to a stop. Children who ride their bicycles should always dismount and walk their bikes across crosswalks and should wear bright-coloured clothing.
On a related note, Nanaimo-Ladysmith Public Schools says that while students from Pleasant Valley and Cilaire elementary schools are relocating due to seismic upgrade work, speed limits remain in effect around those facilities. The district said school buses still pick students up in both school areas while the schools are closed for construction.
Anyone with any questions related to traffic safety can call Nanaimo RCMP’s non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 or e-mail nanaimo_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
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