New Westminster Police Service is reminding everyone to use extra caution as both kids and police officers will be occupying school zones come Tuesday Sept. 6.
Sgt. Gary Weishaar issued a press release Thursday asking everyone to be more vigilant in roadside safety.
"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 hallmark 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 will be stepping up enforcement in school zones after the long weekend.
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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