.JPG)
RCMP detachments in Airdrie and Olds issued summer road safety reminders Tuesday, urging Albertans to stay alert as warm weather brings more cyclists — and as school buses continue to operate through the final stretch of the academic year.
Airdrie RCMP issued a news release urging drivers and cyclists to share the road, reminding riders under 18 that helmets must meet ANSI, Snell or CSA standards.
Cyclists must use an audible warning device, such as a bell, when passing pedestrians. Bikes used at night must be equipped with a front headlamp, red taillamp and red rear reflector.
"Always travel at a safe speed and remember to give way to pedestrians," the release said.
Unless otherwise posted, bicycles with wheels over 50 centimetres in diameter are not permitted on sidewalks. Cyclists riding in a group are advised to stay single file to avoid traffic conflicts.
Drivers are reminded to shoulder check, avoid distractions, and leave at least one to 1.5 metres when passing cyclists, depending on local bylaws.
In a separate Facebook post on Tuesday, Olds RCMP said, "school’s almost out, but school bus safety is still in."
"Children can be unpredictable near roadways, especially when entering or exiting a school bus," the post read. "It’s crucial to remain vigilant and aware of bus stop procedures and passing laws."
Drivers in both directions must stop when a school bus has red flashing lights and an extended stop arm — unless the roadway is divided by a physical median. On divided highways, only vehicles approaching from behind must stop.
Violations can result in fines of up to $567 and six demerit points.
Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon.
Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@discoverairdrie.com. You can also message and follow us on Twitter: @AIR1061FM.
DiscoverAirdrie encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the DiscoverAirdrie app.