Edmonton is a bustling city with a thriving community, and the safety of its residents is always a top priority. One area of particular concern is the safety of children in playground zones. In an effort to reduce the risk of accidents, the city has implemented strict speed limits in designated playground zones. Playground zone is also an integral part of road test in Edmonton, road test route includes at least two playground area/zones.
What are Playground Zones?
Playground zones are designated areas around playgrounds, schools, and community centers where children are known to play. The purpose of these zones is to create a safer environment for children by reducing traffic speeds in areas where children are most likely to be present.
Why are Playground Zones Important?
Playground zones helps to protect children, who are playing in the area. Children are naturally curious and often run, jump, and play without considering the potential dangers of traffic. Reducing the speed of traffic in these areas reduces the risk of accidents and keeps children safer.
In addition, playground zones also provide a safer environment for families who are walking or biking in the area. A slower speed limit makes it easier for drivers to see pedestrians and cyclists and to react in a timely manner if necessary. Driving schools in Edmonton spend good amount of time practicing with students in these zone and covering all the little details about the playground zones.
Enforcing Playground Zone Speed Limits:
The City of Edmonton commits to enforcing the speed limits in playground zones to keep children safe. Police officers and community safety officers regularly patrol playground zones, to ensure that drivers are following the posted speed limit.
Drivers caught breaking the speed limit in a playground zone can face a fine and may get demerit points. Repeat offenders may face even stiffer penalties, including a fine of up to $1000 and a jail sentence of up to 6 months.
Playground Zone Hours:
In 2018, the city of Edmonton changed all Edmonton school zones into playground zones. This means that there are no days off from 30 km/h speed limits on those areas. Drivers who enter a playground zone must drive at 30 km/h between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Tips for Drivers in Playground Zones:
If you are driving in a playground zone, it is important to be aware of the reduced speed limit and to always follow it. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe in these areas:
Slow down:
The speed limit in a playground zone is 30 km/h, be sure to reduce your speed and drive at a safe and appropriate speed for the area.
Keep a lookout for children: Children are naturally unpredictable, and they may dart out into the street without warning. When driving in a playground zone, be prepared to stop at any time and keep a close eye out for children.
Illegal to Pass:
It is illegal to pass another vehicle while driving in the playground zone, offence may result in a fine and demerit points.
Yield to pedestrians:
In a playground zone, pedestrians always have the right of way. Be sure to yield to them and allow them to cross the street safely.
Avoid distractions:
Distracted driving is a serious issue and can be particularly dangerous in playground zones, a driver avoid using your cell phone, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities while you are driving in these areas.
Summary:
Playground zones are an important safety measure in Edmonton, and they play a crucial role in keeping children and families safe. By reducing traffic speeds in these areas, the risk of accidents is reduced, and everyone can enjoy the area more safely. If you are driving in a playground zone, be sure to follow the posted speed limit, keep a lookout for children, yield to pedestrians, and avoid distractions. Together, we can make Edmonton’s playground zones safe and enjoyable for everyone.