Yellowknife (Aug 29/03) - With students back on the streets to and from school, the City of Yellowknife is requesting drivers take extra precautions when out on the roads.

"We will be sending out this message by being there," said Doug Gillard, manager of municipal enforcement in Yellowknife.

"We have two main concerns. The first is speeding in school zones and the second is pedestrians on the street," he added.

Gillard explained that in order to enforce these safety measures, municipal enforcement required a shift in manpower.

"There will be two officers on during the morning shift," said Gillard, who also indicated that they will do rides on the bus in order to ensure the safety of the students.

Besides municipal enforcement, safety messages are also being distributed to the public through individual businesses, and through the school boards.

Liz Baile, student services coordinator for Yellowknife Catholic Schools, explained the importance of increased safety measures when students are back on the streets.

"We do this as a matter of course every school year," said Baile. Students are often reminded about the safety measures that should be taken both on and off the school grounds.

"The teachers really cue the kids up in the classroom," said Baile.