RCMP reminding drivers school zones are in effect as soon as school starts

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Classes will be back in session next week and that means school zones will be in place as well.

“School zones will be in effect starting with the first day of school. Students will still be walking to school using our local crosswalks,” said Salmon Arm RCMP Staff Sgt. Scott West. “So please slow down in those zones and around the schools. The Salmon Arm RCMP would also like to remind drivers to be vigilant for our students who may be walking to school and obey the crossing guards who are there to keep our children safe.”

West said school buses will be on the roads as well, and drivers must stop for the flashing lights as they pick up and drop off students.

“For the parents of young students it is always a great idea to go over crossing at intersections and making eye contact with drivers. Remind them only to cross if it is safe and not to run when crossing a street,” said West. “Walking the route that younger students will take to get to school is always a good idea.”

West said that allows a parent to know and approve of the walking route as well providing a chance to identify hazards for a child and talk about them.

The fine for speeding in school zones is a minimum of $196 and up to $483 for excessive speed and a vehicle impoundment.

The fine for not stopping yielding to a pedestrian and disobeying a crossing guard the fines are $167. Failing to stop for a school bus is a $368 fine.