With thousands of children returning to school this week, Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) has advised that drivers observe safety rules around the province’s school zones.

The insurer has put out a release to remind drivers to slow down around school zones and be careful of schoolchildren.

“There is a lot going on within a school zone,” said SGI Auto Fund chief operating officer JP Cullen. “We have students of all ages entering and exiting buses, playing on playgrounds and walking or running in crosswalks and pedestrian crossings. Some of those students, as excited as they may be getting back to school and seeing their friends, may not be paying attention to vehicle traffic on the roads. That’s why drivers need to slow down and be aware of everything that is going on around them.”

Drivers caught driving 20km/h over the posted limit in school zones would be fined $310, SGI warned.

“Vehicle-pedestrian collisions in school zones are, fortunately, very rare,” said Regina Police Service representative Elizabeth Popowich. “One of the reasons for that is the reduced speed limits drivers are required to follow when they approach schools.”

Children do not always follow instructions, SGI cautioned, so drivers also need to be aware of kids popping out from between parked vehicles or jaywalking. The Crown corporations also offered a reminder that whenever a school bus is stopped with amber lights flashing, drivers must slow down and ensure it is safe before passing the bus.

“We want to ensure that every child makes it to school safely,” said Kim Onrait, executive director of citizen services at the City of Regina. “School and playground zones are clearly marked with signage so drivers know the speed limit, where they can or can’t park and where the crosswalks are so children can walk safely and provide clear sightlines for drivers and students.”