SD78 banning e-scooters on school property after spike in injuries across B.C.

HOPE — The Fraser-Cascade School District says it will be banning e-scooters on school premises in light of recent injuries involving e-scooters across the region.

SD78 said the decision comes after consultation with local RCMP regarding ongoing concerns for student and public safety, according to a letter issued to parents Friday.

“We respectfully ask parents and guardians to speak with their children about these expectations and to refrain from allowing e-scooters to be used as transportation to and from school, as they will not be permitted on school grounds,” said District Superintendent Dr. Balan Moorthy.

Moorthy added that many e-scooters exceed current provincial speed limits, with some modified scooters violating B.C. regulations.

Riders in the province must be at least 16 to ride e-scooters and wear helmets, while devices must be capped at 25 km/h and ridden only on roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less.

A young e-scooter rider in Hope was sent to hospital after colliding with a vehicle only a few days prior to the announcement.

Chilliwack RCMP had also issued a warning this month due to an increase in collisions in the city.