As the new school year rolls in, so do reduced speed limits in school zones.

As of Sept. 1, speed limits in designated areas throughout Altona will be reduced from 50 km/h to 30 km/h. Until June 30, motorists will be required to slow down between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Altona police Chief Perry Batchelor reminds drivers to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe school year for students.

"It's a great opportunity to remind people that when school goes back in our streets explode with a lot of kids that are excited and making their way back to class, and we just want to make sure it's a safe back to school, so slow down, pay attention, and don't be distracted by other things while you're operating a motor vehicle," said Batchelor, adding that police presence will increase in these zones.

Police would also like to remind parents to register their children's bikes on the service's online registry.

Bikes have been stolen from school yards in the past; by registering your bikes we can get them back to you in short order. Please visit the Altona Police website and register your bikes today.

Meantime, designated school zones will also come into effect in Winkler and Morden on Friday. From 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. the speed in certain areas around the two cities will go down from 50 km/h to 30 km/h.

"In general with school starting back up the streets will start getting a little busier with pedestrians with students, cyclists, and of course buses on highways and streets," shared Morden Police Chief Brad Neduzak. "We just ask people to take a little extra time when people are leaving their homes and work places to allow time for the extra traffic and pedestrians. We urge them to slow down, be aware, and be cautious at all of the pedestrian cross walks and crossing guards by our schools. Of course for school buses. To ensure that you are stopping when their emergency lights are activated, which is allowing students to either board or get off the bus."