Police urge safe driving and responsible E-Scooter use as school year begins

September 2, 2026 - Chilliwack, British Columbia
From: Chilliwack RCMP

Content

As students prepare for the start of a new school year, the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment (UFVRD) is encouraging drivers, parents, caregivers and students to prioritize safety on roads, sidewalks and pathways.

The return to school means increased traffic around schools, school bus stops, crosswalks and residential neighbourhoods. Motorists are reminded that school zone hours vary throughout communities in the UFVRD, with some zones taking effect as early as 7:30 a.m. and others beginning at 8:00 a.m.. Drivers should familiarize themselves with these regulations in the areas they travel in.

Back-to-school safety reminders

For drivers:

• Obey posted school zone speed limits and be prepared to stop suddenly.
• Watch carefully for children crossing the road, especially near schools, parks and bus stops.
• Stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights and extended stop signs. 
• Eliminate distractions such as cell phones and keep your attention focused on the road.
• Allow yourself extra time during the busy morning and afternoon commuting periods.

For parents and caregivers:

• Review safe pedestrian habits with your children, including using marked crosswalks and making eye contact with drivers before crossing.
• Remind children to avoid using phones, headphones or other distractions while walking or riding.
• Ensure students who cycle to school always wear a properly fitted helmet.
• If your teen rides an E-Scooter, make sure you both understand the rules before they ride.
• Use designated school drop-off and pick-up areas whenever possible to minimize traffic congestion.

E-Scooters: Know the rules before you ride

As E-Scooters continue to grow in popularity, the UFVRD is reminding families that they are not intended for young children and must be operated safely and legally. Riders should respect pedestrians and other road users, know where in the community they are permitted to ride, and obey traffic laws.

E-scooter safety reminders:

• Riders must be 16 years of age or older.
• Always wear a properly fitted helmet.
• Never carry a passenger. E-scooters are designed for one rider only.

"September is a busy time of the year on our roads as students make their way to and from school," says Corporal Carmen Kiener of the UFVRD. "Whether they are walking, cycling, riding school buses, or using newer forms of transportation such as E-Scooters, everyone has a role to play in keeping them safe. Throughout the month, RCMP officers and volunteers with Speed Watch will be conducting enforcement and education initiatives in school zones across our communities."

Student safety depends on all of us, and everyone has a part to play. By remaining attentive and following the rules of the road, we can make the journey to and from school safer for everyone.

Associated links

• Electric kick scooter rules and safety - Province of British Columbia

Contacts