RCMP News Archives

September is back to school month and the RCMP would like to offer some back to school safety tips to help ensure the safety of Manitoba students.

Walking to school

• Make sure your child’s walk to school is a safe route, and your child is familiar with it. Walk with them until they know the route and can do it safely.
• Always stop and look both ways before crossing the street.
• Small children may be less cautious around traffic. Carefully consider whether your child is ready to walk to school without adult supervision.
• Consider having a designated adult walk to school with a group of neighbourhood children.
• Walk or ride the bus with a “buddy”

On the school bus

• Always wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before leaving the curb.
• Remain seated and do not move around on the bus.
• Always board and exit the bus at a location that provides safe access to the school bus or the school.
• Motorists are reminded to obey all signals when approaching a school bus. Fines for passing a stopped school bus are in excess of $600.

Riding your bike

• Always remember to wear a helmet, even on a short ride.
• Ride on the right hand side in the same direction as traffic.
• Wear bright or high visibility clothing.
• Know the “rules of the road”.
• At busy intersections, get off your bike and walk across.

Driving to school

• Use extra caution around school zones, crosswalks, and school buses.
• Watch out for young pedestrians and cyclists.
• Driver and passengers should always wear their seat belts.
• Throughout Manitoba novice teen drivers will be driving to and from school. Drivers are reminded to wear their seat belts and ensure they aren’t distracted by car stereos,cell phones, text messaging, or other passengers. A ticket for distracted driving is approximately $200, and a safety concern for all of us who share the road.