Penticton RCMP and School District 67 remind drivers to put safety first as students return to school

August 27, 2026 - Penticton, British Columbia
From: Penticton RCMP

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With students returning to classrooms on September 8, Penticton RCMP and School District No. 67 (Okanagan Skaha) are reminding drivers, parents and students to help make the trip to and from school a safe one.

The start of the school year brings increased vehicle, pedestrian and bicycle traffic around local schools. Drivers should expect busy streets during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up and allow extra time for their commute.

In Penticton, school and playground zones have a speed limit of 30 km/h, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, unless otherwise posted. Drivers are reminded to slow down and remain alert for children who may be walking or cycling near the roadway.
“Back to school means more children walking and riding in our neighbourhoods, and more vehicles moving through school zones,” says Cst. Kelly Brett of the Penticton RCMP. “A few extra seconds of patience can make a significant difference. Slow down, put your phone away and pay attention to crosswalks, traffic signs and the people around you. Our goal is simple. We want every student to arrive at school and return home safely.”

Penticton RCMP and School District 67 are asking families and motorists to keep the following safety reminders in mind:

• Slow down: The speed limit in Penticton school and playground zones is 30 km/h, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, unless otherwise posted.
• Use designated drop-off and pick-up areas: Do not stop in travel lanes, crosswalks, intersections or other areas where stopping or parking is prohibited. Where Kiss & Go zones are provided, use them for brief drop-offs and keep traffic moving.
• Obey traffic control devices: Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and follow all posted signs, signals and directions from crossing guards or other traffic control personnel.
• Wear a helmet & ride safely: Students riding bicycles must wear an approved bicycle helmet and follow the rules of the road. 
• Leave e-scooters at home: Electric kick scooters require riders to be at least 16 years old under provincial rules. Younger students must not operate them. E-scooters are also prohibited from sidewalks, and all riders must wear a helmet.
• Avoid distractions: Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians should stay focused on their surroundings, especially in busy school areas.

“As we welcome students and staff back for another school year, safety remains a shared responsibility across our entire community,” says Todd Manuel, Superintendent of Schools for School District No. 67. “We encourage families to talk with their children about safe routes to school and remind drivers to slow down and stay alert. Small choices made by each of us help create safer school communities for everyone.”

Penticton RCMP will conduct increased patrols around local schools as students return to class, with a focus on speed, unsafe driving behaviours and compliance with traffic control devices.

Parents are encouraged to review their child’s route to school before the first day, identify safe crossing locations and reinforce helmet and road safety rules.

Penticton RCMP and School District 67 wish students, families and school staff a safe and successful start to the 2026-27 school year.
 

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