Winnipeg Parking
Authority campaign encourages drivers to “Be Aware. Park with Care” around
schools, fire lanes and designated spaces
Campaign aims
to educate drivers prior to WPA mailing out tickets for parking
violations
Winnipeg, MB – Today, the Winnipeg Parking
Authority (WPA) launched its “Be Aware. Park with Care” campaign which
encourages drivers to follow parking laws when stopping or parking around
schools, fire lanes and designated parking spaces. The campaign aims to educate
drivers about the parking rules in these high-offense areas prior to the WPA
beginning to mail out parking tickets on May 1, 2017.
“Parking illegally around schools, in
fire lanes and in designated parking spaces can cause serious safety concerns,
traffic delays and inconvenience,” said Councillor Cindy Gilroy, Chair of the
Standing Policy Committee on Innovation. “I’m pleased to see the Winnipeg
Parking Authority take the initiative to educate the public and emphasize that
these spaces are saved for something more important than your
convenience.”
The campaign features several videos that will be used to supplement a
social media campaign, radio spots, newspaper advertising as well as targeted
communication with schools and parents.
“Illegally parked vehicles during
school pick up and drop offs create serious safety hazards for children and
cause traffic delays,” said Councillor Brian Mayes, the City’s Liaison for
School Boards & Youth Opportunity. “I am thrilled the Winnipeg Parking
Authority is launching this campaign and working with schools to address these
concerns.”
Similarly, the campaign notes that
illegally parked cars in fire lanes, whether at a shopping mall, grocery store,
community centre or other public venue, can also cause safety
issues.
“It’s vital that fire lanes remain
free and clear of any parked cars so that we can respond quickly to emergency
situations,” said Assistant Chief Mark Reshaur, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service.
“Whether it’s a fire or a medical emergency, seconds count so please pay
attention to signage and do not park in fire lanes.”
Also highlighted in the campaign are
designated parking spaces which are reserved for persons with a physical
disability and a properly displayed current permit.
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