As another school year begins, the RCMP would like to remind all motorists to keep an eye out for school buses and for students heading back to class.

Constable Sean O'Keefe, Community Liaison Officer, says the stop sign that comes out from the side of the school bus is a traffic signal and you are not allowed to pass a school bus once that signal is out. O'Keefe notes passing a school bus when its lights are activated and the stop sign is out does carry a fine, adding the RCMP takes those violations very seriously. He says keeping students safe is a priority for everyone.

O'Keefe adds he'd also like to remind motorists that children walking to and from school are going to be pretty excited to get back to see their friends and be in a new grade, so their attention may not be on the road. He encourages motorists to watch for pedestrians crossing the road as well as vehicles coming in and out of school parking lots.

He adds it's generally a good idea to slow down and make sure the start of the school year is a safe one.