‘Slow down and be aware’: Safety reminder given ahead of students’ return to school

As students gear up to head back to class, the City of Lethbridge and local police are reminding drivers to be extra vigilant.

As students gear up to head back to class on Tuesday, the City of Lethbridge and local police are reminding drivers to be extra vigilant on the roads.

All playground and school zones are harmonized to school zones across the city.

The 30 km/h zones are in effect from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. all year.

Along with the zones, safety patrollers will be out and about around schools to help students and parents cross the roads safely.

“Slow down and be aware,” said Sgt. Tony Ramotowski with the Lethbridge Police Service.

“Kids are excited to get back to school, so make sure you’re aware of your surroundings—make sure you’re watching out for kids that are running out between cars and off the bus.”

Ramotowski noted students should also be looking out for themselves.

“The big thing is crossing the street. Use a marked crosswalk and don’t be distracted,” he said.

For parents dropping their kids off for the first day, the AMA says to consider parking further away from the school to help reduce traffic and keep pedestrians safe.