Back To School Safety

We know it’s only August, but back to school time is just around the corner, and the Municipal District of Bonnyville’s Public Safety Department wants to make sure this coming school year is a safe one.

Kids at elementary levels tend to make friends easier and tend to enjoy their time at school a great deal. It is important to remind younger children about things like Stranger Danger, proper bike use (assuming they are riding their bike to school), and safe at home routines for when mom and dad are still at work. Now is also a good time to review pick-up and drop-off routines.

While we’re on that topic, please take caution when dropping and picking kids off at the school. Signs posted in front of schools directing parents not to park in a certain area should be considered traffic control devices and should always be adhered to. The beginning and end of the school day are chaotic and unpredictable as there are big buses sharing spaces with parent vehicles, bicycles, children young and old, pedestrians, and so on. We want to make sure everyone gets to school and home again safely.

And finally, keep an eye out for those school buses and their flashing lights. Amber flashing lights on a school bus lets drivers know they need to be cautious, as the bus is getting ready to stop. Red flashing lights mean STOP immediately. Children are either getting on or off the bus and may be crossing the road. Motorists who fail to stop for flashing lights can be fined $567 and six driving demerits.

Don’t forget – we also have a School Resource Officer (SRO) that visits our local schools, providing informative programs, mentorship, and guidance.

If you have questions about the M.D.’s SRO program, please contact the Public Safety Department at 780-812-3332