A group of Armstrong elementary students joined police officers at a speed check this week, encouraging drivers to keep them in mind when on the road.
The Think of Me campaign is a collaborative initiative between police and youth that underscores the importance of road safety, with the goal of leaving a lasting impression on both drivers and kids.
This year, Vernon North Okanagan RCMP officers teamed up with students from Highland Park Elementary to launch the campaign in Armstrong.
Students in the program learned about road safety from officers over the past several weeks, and from these lessons, they applied what they learned to create Think of Me artwork, or ‘tickets’ to be handed out as a reminder to drivers to slow down and pay attention in and around school zones.
The students joined officers at a speed check on Wood Avenue on Tuesday, March 12, where they delivered their messages to drivers in person.
“This is the second time around for the program in our area and again it’s a huge success,” said Cpl. Ted Bowen. “Road safety is about influencing drivers to adopt safer habits on the road and prioritize the safety of those around them, especially in areas where children are present. We believe it has a more lasting effect when we can do that in a positive way.”
The program also helps foster a sense of responsibility and awareness about road safety in younger generations.
They engage in interactive activity to learn about road safety in a fun and memorable way that leaves a lasting impression on them,
added Bowen. One day, when they’re out on the road, hopefully they can reflect on the experience and apply the lessons they’ve learned.
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