Dozens of warnings issued to speeders in school zones

Police say they handed out 88 warnings to drivers in school zones in Kelowna during the first week of back to school.

RCMP and BC Highway Patrol officers visited numerous schools in the Kelowna region, and all of the warnings were related to speeding.

“It is imperative to emphasize that it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep school zones safe by reducing our speed and remain vigilant,” Const. Mike Della-Paolera said.

In addition to addressing speeding concerns, RCMP are reminding drivers to not use their cell phones while driving as not only is it illegal, but using hand-held devices can significantly reduce visual attention and reactionary time.

School zones in the Central Okanagan are in effect Monday to Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. while school is in session.

The hours vary across different regions in B.C., so drivers should be attentive to traffic signs.