September means more pedestrians, school zones, and distracted drivers on Alberta roads. Employers with workers who drive as part of their job need a refresher on the rules that apply — and the liability that comes with ignoring them.
It is that time of year again, school is back!! As the school doors open for the year that means the traffic will get busier on our streets and parents and children will deal with more stressful times.
To help you with a safe commute for you, your children and those around you, and tips for children and parents transitioning back to school be sure to follow these safety tips.
Although you should always obey posted speed limits, it is especially important during the school year. Children crossing the road on their way to and from school can easily get distracted and step into harm's way. Slowing down and being vigilant is crucial to keeping kids safe. Children are often out throughout the day at recess, lunch, and for certain classes, so it's important to drive slowly throughout the day.
A crossing guard is there to keep children safe. If you come up to a set of lights, and the light turns green, but the crossing guard still says stop, follow their direction and not the traffic light. There might be a child still crossing the street that you can't see.
Kids are small and easily distracted, and for drivers, this can create dangerous situations on the roads. Be vigilant and alert behind the wheel. You never know when a small child might step out from between parked cars or off a sidewalk. Your fast reflexes might be needed to prevent an accident.
Most mishaps take place outside the bus. Make sure children don't arrive too early at the bus stop where they can wander. Make sure children wait well away from the road and stay back until the school bus makes a full stop and the doors open. Explain that they must walk at least three metres (10 feet) away when crossing in front of the bus so the driver can see them. When driving your car near a school bus please note that extra caution is needed. You shouldn't pass a school bus when the signal lights are flashing (as children are often crossing the road at that time) and drive slowly as a general precaution.
On most roads, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as vehicles, but bikes can be hard to see. Children riding bikes create special problems for drivers because usually they are not able to properly determine traffic conditions. The most common cause of collision is a driver turning left in front of a bicyclist.
Even before the pandemic, children’s mental health was a public health concern, and levels of anxiety were on the rise. The COVID-19 pandemic has meant additional stress, fear, and worry for many families. Worries about sickness, finances, and isolation, coping with grief from loss, and having less outside help have made parenting more stressful.
Have a safe school year and lookout for one another!
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Written by
Safety Ahead Team
Alberta-based safety consultants with decades of field experience — COR auditors, OHS advisors, and WCB specialists working with employers across the province.
About Safety AheadWe build and maintain Alberta safety programs that hold up under audit and inspection — hazard assessments, orientations, procedures, and ongoing support.
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