Alberta Health Services EMS would like to remind parents and students of safety tips as the school year begins again this fall. Pedestrians and motorists both have a key role to play – road safety is a shared responsibility.
Motorists
- Distracted driving carries a $300 fine and three demerit points in Alberta. Avoid the use of mobile devices or engaging in any other behavior that diverts your attention away from driving;
- Give right-of-way to pedestrians who have activated overhead crossing lights, or who are waiting to cross from a street corner;
- Other than parked cars, it is illegal to pass another vehicle in a school or playground zone during posted hours.
Pedestrians
- Cross only at marked crosswalks, or street corners that have clear visibility from all directions;
- Make eye contact with all drivers before crossing the street, and keep distractions to a minimum;
- When activating overhead crossing lights, pause before stepping off the curb to ensure motorists in both directions have come to a complete stop;
- Stay within the crosswalk lines;
- Obey pedestrian lights at intersections. Cross the street only when you see the ‘walk’ sign and only when all vehicles have come to a complete stop;
- If you are with young children or pets, hold your child’s hand firmly and keep a solid grip on leashes when crossing;
- Remember: children learn by observing. By demonstrating safe crossing habits, you can reduce the chances of your child being involved in a preventable auto/pedestrian collision.