I said I wouldn’t, but I have to as my conscience and rage levels are kicking in. Might be the OCD, might be that I am not as perfect as I would hope to be, but on that note I do try to ensure that I don’t break the rules of the road.
The rules of the road, especially as they pertain to those diamond-shaped signs that mean “School Zone,” and oh yes, the longer one, “Playground,” which in the case of Red Deer are one and the same.
You see, I drive home through these areas every day on my way home from work; then I turn right around and walk through them. Oh the torture.
I watch in awe as no one obeys the speed limits. The lady in the grey Chevy talking on her phone, flying through the St. Francis playground at around 3:45 p.m. The moms in the minivans full of kids — how ironic is that?
If I was to stand and wave a flag, I am sure people would not notice me or the children in the playgrounds or walking home from school.
The city provides us with some unbelievable playgrounds and equipment.
It seems as though they, as well as the children, go unnoticed. I shudder at the thought of what could happen. I need to walk in the dark and let my rage dissipate. But my other question is, where are the sheriffs and/or RCMP at school zones and playgrounds?
We might not have to pay so many taxes if they wrote the amount of ticket infractions I see. Maybe if we could put up “Your speed” signs in these areas to protect our children, and not just someone’s fence or backyard? I said my piece and will continue to drive home every day through these posted zones and, weather permitting, go out walking. I think maybe I will take an alternate route.
I don’t want to be around when something happens.
Just as a reminder. The local RCMP shop has these great stickers, like the ones you get when you have your oil changed. They are quite visible when stuck to the inside upper corner of your windshield. I know I refer to mine a lot.
Best part is they are free — free to maybe save a life.
Sheryl Holmberg
Red Deer