While kids are enjoying their summer holidays it's a community effort to make sure everyone enjoys the warm weather safely. (file photo/paNOW Staff)

By Ronald Quaroni

Kids at play

School zone safety remains important during summer holidays

Jun 25, 2019 | 11:47 AM

As of June 27, the majority of students from both the Saskatchewan River’s Public School Division and the Prince Albert Catholic School Division will be on summer holidays.

“We know that our students are a vulnerable audience, safety might not be top of mind. Let’s take some responsibility and have the kids stay safe this summer,” Christine Niemczyk, director of communications with CAA Saskatchewan, said. “Reduce you speed, be attentive, be alert, look around and know that families, kids, and grandparents need time to cross the street.”

Niemczyk added parents and guardians need to have a conversation with kids about how to safely cross the street.

“Never run into traffic or between parked cars, buses or buildings. Look both ways before crossing the street and only cross the street when safe to do so,” she said.

With more and more kids with cellphones there’s also the potential, Niemczyk warned, they could be injured by walking distracted.

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“Avoid using the cellphone for texting and gaming, especially when crossing the street. We’re seeing a lot more of our youth crossing, cycling, running across the street with headsets on and not paying attention to their surroundings,” Niemczyk advised. ”So just a reminder; be alert, put your cellphones away, keep your head up, always be aware of your surroundings.”

In an email, the Prince Albert Police Service advise school zone speed limits across the city are 30 km/h from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday between September and June. During the summer months of July and August, the speed limits default to the posted limit for that specific roadway.

“Drivers are always reminded to slow down and be aware when driving, including in areas with schools, playgrounds, spray parks, skateparks etc. as children of all ages will be out and about enjoying the warmer weather,” the service wrote.

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Ron.quaroni@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @RonaldQuaroni