Duane Hicks
Local motorists are being reminded they should slow down, especially in light of the new school year starting next Tuesday.
The OPP has been deploying a mobile radar sign around town to clearly show motorists just how fast they’re going—and hopefully make them cognizant of the fact they should slow down.
“As we move towards the beginning of the school year, we are beginning our traffic safety reminders and refreshing the minds of drivers to be aware of traffic and pedestrians,” OPP Cst. Anne McCoy said yesterday.
She noted the sign has been displayed over the past week at various locations, including Colonization Road East near the water treatment plant, because police recognize children are playing in the area of the public docks.
The sign also has been situated on King’s Highway, as well as Colonization Road West, to remind motorists to slow down as they enter Fort Frances from Highway 602 (river road).
It will continue to be displayed around the areas of the schools over the next few weeks to slow traffic down and help drivers be mindful of their speeds, said Cst. McCoy.
“[It’s] always good to remind people to slow down as we enter school bus season and be mindful of the frequent stops,” she added.
Cst. McCoy said slowing down by merely five km/h can make a real difference when it comes to being able to stop safely.
This point is well-illustrated in a short YouTube video, which can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7vjHCrcN7I
The radar sign is owned by the Rainy River District Community Policing Committee.
It was purchased about three years ago with help from a grant.
The device is used by police throughout the year to help with various traffic initiatives.
