Now that autumn is approaching and the leaves are beginning to yellow and match the school buses, the Alberta RCMP are reminding people to drive safe.
With school back in session, drivers are being reminded that there will be increased traffic and rush-hour commutes, which has prompted the RCMP to offer some driving tips.
They recommend students wear brightly coloured clothes to help them appear more visible to motorists during the dim early-morning hours or whenever the weather conditions limit visibility.
For parents, it is encouraged to teach children to look in every direction prior to crossing the street, to only cross at crosswalks, and to make eye contact with drivers before they step out onto the road.
Children should also be taught, say the RCMP, to not run after school buses if they miss them, because the bus driver and other motorists may not see the child running onto the road.
For the students who are taking the bus, make sure the child knows of the traffic hazards that are present around the bus stop, and parents are asked to ensure the child knows of a safe place to wait for the bus.
If a parent is meeting their child at a bus stop, it's best to meet them at the actual bus stop, because the child may forget about traffic safety rules in their excitement to see their parent after a day at school.
For those students who live close enough to either walk or bike to school, the RCMP advise they are shown a safe route to school and have any potential hazard pointed out to them on the route, and make sure they know how to use a crosswalk properly and follow traffic control devices.
The RCMP also want to remind people that it is illegal to pass a school bus when it has its red lights flashing and drivers on both sides of the road must remain stopped until the bus has turned off its lights.
Anyone who wears headphones or texts while walking can cause distractions that could lead to dangerous situations.
School Zones are now in full effect, so it's important to slow down while in school zones, and during school hours it is important to stay alert for children.
And just like how pedestrians are encouraged to make eye contact with drivers prior to stepping out into the street, the RCMP is reminding drivers to always make eye contact with pedestrians prior to turning to ensure the pedestrians are aware of the vehicle.
"September is a busy time for all, as students and parents get back into their usual routines. Giving ourselves a little more time for our morning and afternoon commutes can make for a safer commute for all," said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic, in a media release from September 3rd.