After observing various unsafe driving practices around school zones since September, the Weyburn Police Service have put a focus on school zone traffic enforcement. Deputy Chief Shane St. John says matters have improved.
“There's always a work in progress. The members have been doing a great job of getting out there and policing the school zones, and I think that helps deter a lot of issues that were being had. As long as we have the manpower to be out there patrolling, they're not tied up with something else, they will be on those school zones at the key times.”
Despite officers patrolling the area, the Deputy Chief encourages unsafe behavior be reported to them when they’re not present.
“If somebody sees something, speeding, or not stopping for the kids at the crosswalk, going by a bus stop that stopped at their sign out, just let us know and try to get a plate number.”
He says the main infractions they see are failing to stop for bus stop signs, speeding, illegal parking, and U-turns done outside a controlled intersection.
“The biggest thing when you're in those school zones is always just be vigilant, keep your eyes open, watch for any of the kids coming from anywhere. That's the biggest thing in school zones, just being very alert and ready to stop at a short notice because you never know what could happen.”
The Weyburn Police Service responded to 80 calls for service from November 11th to the 17th. Eleven total charges were laid, all under the Traffic Safety Act.