Police Stress Safety While students go back to Halifax’s lesson

Back-to-School Safety Tips for Halifax Area Students

As thousands of public students in the Halifax area head back to school, the local police are urging everyone to be extra cautious on the roads.

Increased Traffic Awareness

The RCMP is warning drivers to expect more vehicles on the roads and an increase in pedestrians now that school is back in session. Drivers are reminded to exercise caution, especially in school zones.

“In school zones where the speed limit is 50 km/h, motorists must reduce their speed to a maximum of 30 km/h,” stated a media release from the RCMP. “For speed limits exceeding 50 km/h, drivers must slow down to a maximum of 50 km/h in school zones.”

Speeding violations in school zones pose a serious risk to the safety of students and can result in hefty fines and driving suspensions.

School Bus Safety

With more school buses on the roads, the police are reminding drivers that it is illegal to pass a school bus when its stop sign is extended and red lights are flashing.

Families are also encouraged to educate students on road safety rules, such as using marked pedestrian crossings, checking both ways before crossing the street, and avoiding darting between parked cars.

It’s important for students to know their route to school and to consider walking with a friend if they do not require adult supervision.

Online Safety Awareness

In addition to traffic safety, the RCMP is also emphasizing the importance of online safety for students in the digital age.

Students are advised not to accept friend requests from strangers online and to be cautious when sharing photos on the internet, as once a photo is shared, they lose control over who sees it and where it ends up.

By staying informed and following these safety tips, students can have a safe and successful school year in the Halifax area.