Kids in and around Edmonton are headed back to school in the coming days and the province is reminding drivers to be “vigilant” in school zones.
Summer break is nearly over and school zones will be back in effect as classes resume.
First days of classes in Edmonton and surrounding areas are:
- St. Albert Catholic schools – Wednesday Aug. 28
- St. Albert public schools – Wednesday Aug. 28 (Grades 10 – 12), Wednesday Aug. 28 – Friday Aug. 30 (Kindergarten – Grade 9)
- Edmonton public schools – Thursday Aug. 29
- Elk Island public schools – Thursday Aug. 29
- Elk Island Catholic schools – Thursday Aug. 29
- Edmonton Catholic schools – Tuesday Sept. 3
The speed limit for school zones while they are active is 30 km/h.
The province issued reminders for drivers, including:
- slow down and stop when the school bus activates its alternately flashing red lights, whether you are approaching or following the bus;
- drivers cannot pass or attempt to pass another vehicle travelling in the same direction within a school zone, when the zone is in effect;
- the penalty for failing to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights is $567 and six demerit points; and
- be on the lookout for children crossing the road.
School zone hours are posted on the signs denoting the lowered speed limit.