RCMP - School Bus Safety

Chestermere, Alta. – With the new school year now underway, Chestermere RCMP is reminding all motorists that school bus safety remains a top priority. As students return to classrooms, school buses are back on the roads and children are once again relying on drivers to follow the rules and keep them safe.

The excitement of a new school year, along with early mornings and busy routines, can increase distractions behind the wheel. Now is not the time to be complacent. Children can be unpredictable near roadways, especially when entering or exiting a school bus. That’s why it’s crucial to remain vigilant and aware of bus stop procedures and passing laws.

To help keep our roads safe for all students, Chestermere RCMP offers the following school bus safety reminders:

• If a school bus is stopped with red flashing lights and an extended stop arm, all drivers in both directions must stop, unless the roadway is physically divided by a median.
• On divided highways, only vehicles approaching the rear of the bus are required to stop. Oncoming traffic on the opposite side of a physical median is not required to stop.
• Do not proceed until the red lights have stopped flashing and the stop arm has been retracted.
• Flashing yellow lights mean the bus is preparing to stop — drivers must slow down and prepare to stop.
• Failing to stop for a school bus can result in a fine of up to $567 and six demerit points.