With students returning to school this week, the province is reminding Nova Scotians to obey speed limit signs when children are present in school areas all over Nova Scotia.

“There is no time limit on safety,” said Maurice Smith, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

“It’s 24-7. If children are in a school area, whether it’s 10 a.m. or 6 p.m., you must slow down to the posted limit.”

In September 2012, the government introduced legislation to reduce speed limits in school zones. Drivers have to reduce speed in school areas to 30 km/h, in a 50 km/h zone, whenever children are present. In areas where the speed limit is higher than 50 km/h entering the school area, a 50 km/h reduced speed limit continues to be in effect.

“Pedestrian injuries are the leading cause of death among children ages 14 and under,” said Jennifer Russell, health promotion specialist, Child Safety Link, IWK Health Centre. “Small reductions in vehicle speed can help significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries for pedestrians and drivers.

“Child Safety Link encourages people to slow down, be alert, and help create a safer environment for everyone.”

Drivers should also remember that fines for speeding are doubled in Nova Scotia school areas. More information about reduced speed limits in school areas can be found at http://novascotia.ca/tran/roadsafety/schoolzonesafety.asp .

Source: Release