Community corner — local happenings

By Stan Ashbee
Westwind Weekly News

It’s back to school for Magrath, Stirling, Raymond and area students — of all ages.

“As our community’s children return to school, it’s important for drivers and pedestrians to be extra cautious and to respect the rules of the road,” the Town of Magrath stated in a recent media release posted on the town’s website. “The littlest ones will be extra excited, so please be mindful of crosswalks and buses within our town.”

Whether you call them scooters or mopeds, the Town of Raymond sure does seem to have a lot of them, according to a recent media release posted on the town’s website.

“Now don’t get us wrong, they are an affordable mode of transportation, and a great way for youth to get around town during the spring through early fall,” it was stated in the media release. “That being said, council has received a number of complaints from the public regarding, ‘reckless, scooter gangs creating chaos on our streets in the evening hours.’ 

Mostly, it was noted in the release, the complaints are coming from a place of concern for the safety of those riding and it is from this perspective council has directed the town’s Community Peace Officers (CPO) to focus on unsafe and improper practices that have been witnessed by youth, primarily, on scooters.

From the middle of August until this week, RRPSS, in partnership with the Raymond RCMP, focused on providing education to small vehicle operators — while enforcing the rules of the roads.

After Sept. 1, the focus will shift more towards enforcement, versus education, it was pointed out.

“It’s important all vehicle operators understand the expectations of our provincial statutes before they accept the responsibility of using the public roadways,” it was also stated.

In regard to mopeds (scooters), here’s the scoop:

* Minimum driving age: 14
* Minimum licence required: Class 7
* Registration required: Yes
* Insurance required: Yes
* Helmet required: Yes (an approved motorcycle helmet)

Special rules: No passengers if the driver is under the age of 16. No more than two people on a scooter at any time.

“Ride as far to the right side of the highway as you can (close to the curb or edge or road) unless turning left, so you don’t obstruct traffic,” was one of the tips featured online.

Must haves: headlamp; tail lamp; brake lamp; reflectors; brakes; horn; muffler, and mirror — all the necessary safety equipment.

“Please help spread the word and encourage safe driving practices, so no one is ever hurt, or worse — while travelling in and around our community,” it was added, in the media release.

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