Let’s work together to keep our streets safe this back-to-school season

Old Kildonan

As the school season approaches, excitement is building among our children. As much as our Manitoba summers are cherished, they’re eager to reconnect with friends, meet new ones, and dive back into learning. That sense of anticipation is felt by many in our community, including older family members who remember the joy of a new school year.

With this renewed energy, it’s important that we all do our part to keep our children safe as they travel to and from school. After a summer break, it’s easy to forget some of the key road safety practices, so I’d like to take a moment to re-emphasize a few important reminders:

• Slow down in residential areas, near schools, and around playgrounds.

• Observe posted speed limits — especially in school zones, which return to 30 km/h starting Sept. 1. Children may not always hear or notice approaching vehicles.

• Make a full stop at all stop signs. Pedestrians always have the right of way at intersections.

• Yield at crosswalks — it’s the law. Stop and allow pedestrians to cross safely.

• Stop for school buses when their red lights are flashing and the stop sign is extended.

• Respect school patrols and crossing guards — they play a vital role in keeping everyone safe.

• Share the road with cyclists, especially children biking to school. Give them plenty of space when passing.

• Follow parking and no-stopping signs — these rules help maintain safe and efficient traffic flow.

• Use designated drop-off zones to avoid accidents, traffic congestion, and reduced visibility for drivers, cyclists, and children.

Some schools have introduced “safety walks” and walking bus programs to promote safe and active travel. Additionally, we’re rolling out a new traffic calming initiative around some schools. These new curbs are designed to slow down vehicles, reduce traffic volume, and create safer crossing points for pedestrians.

Community safety is important to all of us and I’m asking all drivers to take extra care this season. Let’s continue to work together to build a culture of safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists of all ages — every day, all year round.

Thank you for your continued support. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas, please reach out to my office at 204-986-5264 or devi@winnipeg.ca