News release

Backpacks, busses, and back to school safety

September 2, 2025 - Vernon, British Columbia
From: Vernon North Okanagan RCMP

Content

Today marks the first day back to school, and the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP would like to remind everyone in our community it’s time to adjust your habits after a long summer break. With students returning to classrooms and roads busier with school-related traffic, safety must be a top priority for drivers, pedestrians, and parents alike.

"Kids, especially the younger ones, can get caught up in the excitement that comes with starting a new school year," states Constable Chris Terleski, Media Relations Officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP. "Safety might not be at the front of their mind which is why it’s important for drivers to slow down and play close attention when passing through these areas. It’s also a good time for parents to have a chat with their kids about pedestrian safety rules."

Here are some important safety tips to help ensure the return to school is smooth and safe for everyone.

Drivers

• Plan ahead and leave earlier, especially if you’re route takes you through school zones
• Avoid distractions! Pay close attention for children in and around crosswalks, intersections, and drop off zones
• Be prepared for the unexpected, children, particularly younger ones, can be unpredictable and can dart into traffic
• Always stop for a school bus with it’s red lights flashing

Students

• Use crosswalks or designated areas to cross roads.;
• Avoid distractions and pay attention to your surroundings;
• Remove headphones and put away your phones;
• Make eye contact with drivers and makes sure all traffic has stopped before stepping out onto roads;
• Walk on the sidewalk, or if unavailable, walk well off the side of the road facing the traffic.

Parents

• Use designated drop off lanes for your children and obey traffic rules in school parking lots;
• Avoid double-parking by stopping and unloading in non-designated parking/drop-off zones.
• Teach your child how to cross the street safely and direct them to the closest designated crosswalk;
• Watch closely for children moving in and around vehicles in drop off areas;
• Give yourself plenty of time and be patient

Motorists are reminded that a 30km/h is in effect in school zones from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Vernon and Lumby and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Armstrong and Enderby, when school is in session.

The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP wants to wish everyone a safe and successful school year!

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