New Westminster Police Service is reminding everyone to use extra caution now that September is here and kids are traipsing through school zones.
Sgt. Gary Weishaar issued a press release Sept. 1 asking everyone to be more vigilant in roadside safety, and notifying the public that police will be stepping up enforcement.
"We ask motorists to please increase their defensive driving habits when it comes to pedestrian safety. Extra care in school zones, intersections and marked crosswalks are the hallmarks of all good, defensive drivers," he said in the release.
And the warning goes both ways - pedestrians need to be extra cautious, too.
"We ask pedestrians to please keep in mind that motorists may have difficulties in seeing them, particularly if it is dark, raining, or overcast. Be aware of wearing dark clothing and how it will affect a pedestrian's visibility to motorists," Weishaar said.
Wieshaar said pedestrians, even when they have the right of way, should make eye contact with oncoming drivers when they are crossing the street.
New Westminster Police's school liaison officer will be instructing students in pedestrian and bicycle safety when school returns, but Weishaar said parents sharing the message with children can also go a long way in keeping kids safe.
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