Back to School Alert: Your Essential Guide to Safe Roads for Calgary Students

The sounds of summer are fading, and a new energy is bubbling across Calgary as students prepare to flood back into classrooms this Tuesday! While the return to routine brings excitement, it also brings a crucial call to action for every single person sharing our roads: slow down, stay aware, and prioritize safety.

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) isn't just offering a suggestion; they're issuing an urgent reminder.

With thousands of young minds hitting the streets, school zones transform into bustling hubs of activity, demanding our utmost attention. This means adhering strictly to the 30 km/h speed limit in all school zones. Remember, these vital restrictions aren't just for school hours – they often overlap with playground zone hours, which are in effect from 7:30 a.m.

to 9 p.m., seven days a week. It’s easy to forget, but a moment of distraction can have lifelong consequences.

One of the gravest threats on our roads is distracted driving. That phone call, that quick text, that glance at your navigation – it can wait. When you're behind the wheel, especially near schools, your full and undivided attention must be on the road, on your surroundings, and most importantly, on the unpredictable movements of children.

Kids, by nature, are curious and sometimes impulsive; they might dart out, change direction unexpectedly, or not always gauge vehicle speeds accurately. As drivers, we carry the immense responsibility to compensate for their inherent unpredictability.

Beyond drivers, safety is a shared responsibility.

Look for our dedicated crossing guards, who will be out in force, brightly clad and ready to assist. Give them space, respect their signals, and thank them for their vital role in protecting our most vulnerable road users. They are the frontline heroes of school zone safety.

For pedestrians, especially our young students, it's essential to practice safe habits.

Always use marked crosswalks, and before stepping off the curb, look left, right, and then left again. Make eye contact with drivers to ensure you’ve been seen. Don't assume a driver sees you; make certain of it.

Cyclists also play a part. Helmets aren't just a recommendation; they're a life-saver.

Follow all traffic laws, just like a vehicle, and use clear hand signals to indicate your intentions. Being predictable on the road is key to preventing accidents.

The first few weeks of school are particularly critical. This is when new routines are established, and everyone is adjusting to the increased traffic and activity.

By embracing vigilance, patience, and a community-minded approach, we can ensure that every child's journey to and from school is a safe one. Let’s work together to make this a fantastic, safe, and successful school year for all Calgary students.