RCMP issue advisory for safe driving around school buses

MASKWACIS -- RCMP in Central Alberta have issued an advisory reminding drivers to practice safe driving near school buses.

This comes after Mounties in the area of Maskwacis say they've received several complaints about drivers not obeying laws relating to flashing school bus lights. Constable Catlin Chiasson reminds drivers about what school bus lights mean and the laws in place to keep children safe.

"We are currently investigating several complaints of motorists failing to stop for a school bus with alternating flashing red lights," said Cst. Chiasson. "The potential ticket for this is $486.00. We thank the public for their assistance".

Alternating yellow lights mean the bus is slowing down and preparing to stop. He asks drivers to be alert for the lights to turn red, and give the school bus plenty of space and treat the area with extra care -- as children might be present waiting for their bus.

Flashing red lights (and a stop arm, if equipped) mean that the bus is stopped, and children are getting on or off. Cst. Chaisson asks motorists to not proceed until the red lights have stopped flashing and the stop arm is retracted, as it is illegal to pass a bus with its red lights flashing.