As kids across Wetaskiwin head back to school, it’s essential for drivers to slow down and stay alert, especially around school and playground zones – busier than ever with excited children, often unaware of potential dangers of traffic.
School and playground zones in Alberta have specific speed limits, designed to allow drivers time to react to unexpected situations, whether it's a child running into the street or a bus stopping suddenly. As part of Wetaskiwin's Traffic Safety Plan, the City converted all school zones into playground zones to ensure consistent protection for children, the speed is capped at 30 km/h between 7:30 a.m. and 9 p.m., seven days a week.
Why it's important to be vigilant
Slower speed zones in school zones are crucial to reducing severe accidents. Traffic injuries, especially those involving children, are often preventable when drivers take care to follow speed limits and stay vigilant.
Children are often excited and distracted when walking or playing with their friends – not necessarily paying attention to the vehicles coming their way. This unpredictability requires drivers to be on heightened alert.
What the statistics say
Alberta’s traffic safety data shows that children between the ages of 5 and 9 are particularly vulnerable to injuries in school zones, due to their smaller size and inability to gauge traffic as accurately as adults.
It's not just about reducing speed, paying attention is equally important. Drivers need to avoid their own distractions, and take preventive safety steps. With the autumn sun rising later, for example, glare can be an issue during morning commutes. Wearing sunglasses and ensuring a clean windshield can help drivers better see what's on or near the road – even when it's unexpected.
What can we do?
The best thing drivers can do is be proactive:
- Slow down to the designated speed limit, even if the schoolyard or playground appears empty.
- Avoid distractions such as cell phones and loud music while driving in school zones.
- Keep a close eye out for crossing guards, buses and children near intersections.
For parents and caregivers, it’s also important to educate children about road safety, including the importance of using crosswalks and being aware of traffic when walking or biking to school.
Visit the Alberta Motor Association for more traffic safety tips.