We’re into week three of the school year, and Comox Valley drivers are being urged to ease off the gas pedal.
The Comox Valley RCMP and School District 71 are reminding everyone to take slow down in school zones.
School district superintendent Tom Demeo said that until we get back into the routine of slowing down in school zones, the district needs to keep reminding the community to be cautious.
The district notes that all drivers should be familiar with the bright yellow signage to indicate schools and school playgrounds are near.
The speed limit in a school zone, unless otherwise posted, is 30 km/h between the hours of 8:00am and 5:00pm Monday to Friday throughout the school year from September to the end of June.
The speed limit near a playground is 30 km/h from dawn to dusk everyday of the year.
The district adds that students will be at school or in the school playgrounds outside of the regular school hours, meaning that drivers need to reduce speed and be vigilant when driving near a school zone at all times of the day.
The local RCMP is also reminding parents and families to teach children a safe route to and from school.
Dress children in bright colours to be noticeable, especially in the evening and when the weather is poor.
Always use a marked crosswalk and look both ways before crossing.
Most importantly, students are reminded to focus. Put down electronics and other distractions and keep eyes on vehicles and drivers before stepping out onto the street.
Comox Valley RCMP Const. Monika Terragni said pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility.
“We all have a role to play not only in obeying the speed limits but teaching road safety to children,” Terragni said.
“Keep your head up and your phone down.”
