Intersections are where it all comes together: vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians moving in different directions, often at the same time. They are also some of the busiest and most collision-prone spots on our roads. A little extra care goes a long way towards keeping everyone safe! 

Whether you're driving, cycling, or walking, staying alert and following the rules of the road helps prevent close calls and serious injuries. 

Drivers: Slow Down & Stay Alert 

• Reduce your speed as you approach an intersection. Stop and check for traffic before proceeding.
• Obey all traffic signs and signals. Come to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs, even when turning right.
• At four-way stops, yield to the vehicle on your right.
• Leave plenty of room between your vehicle and others. Drivers ahead of you may stop suddenly.
• Expect the unexpected. Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, changing lights, slippery roads, and other drivers.
• Don’t rush a yellow light. Yellow means slow down and prepare to stop – not speed up. 

Pedestrians: Be Seen & Be Aware 

• Never jaywalk. Cross only when it’s safe to do so.
• Use crosswalks and pedestrian-activated signals whenever possible.
• Avoid distractions. Put away your phone and remove your headphones when crossing the street.
• Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before stepping into the intersection. 

Winter conditions can make intersections even more unpredictable. By slowing down, paying attention, and respecting right-of-way, we can all do our part in creating safer roads this month and all year long. 

February Traffic Safety: Distracted Driving 

A moment of distraction is all it takes to put lives at risk. This February, motorists are reminded that distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of collisions on Alberta roads, and it’s illegal, even at a red light. 

Under Alberta’s distracted driving law, drivers are prohibited from engaging in a wide range of activities behind the wheel, including texting or emailing, using hand-held cell phones, entering information into GPS units, reading printed material, writing, or personal grooming such as brushing teeth or applying makeup. 

The law applies to all vehicles, as defined by the Traffic Safety Act, and to all roads in Alberta. Drivers can be charged even if their driving performance does not appear to be affected. The penalty is significant: a $300 fine and three demerit points. 

Remember to take simple steps to stay focused and keep roads safe: 

• Put your phone away. Only use your cellphone when parked in a safe location. Let calls go to voicemail or have a passenger answer.
• Stay calm. Emotional conversations with passengers or over hands-free devices can be distracting. Be prepared to pause or end conversations to focus on traffic.
• Keep your hands on the wheel. Never read, write, or take notes while driving. Pull over safely to check directions or make notes.
• Pull over when needed. Find a safe place to stop before tending to children or pets.
• Plan ahead. Set music, navigation, and other electronics before driving to avoid adjustments on the road. 

Distracted driving is preventable. By staying focused, drivers help protect themselves, their passengers, and everyone else sharing Alberta’s roads. 

For more information about distracted driving laws and penalties, visit alberta.ca/distracted-driving. 

Pet Licensing: Keep Your Pet and Our Community Safe

Owning a pet comes with more than love and companionship; it also comes with responsibility. Animal licensing helps keep pets, owners, and the community safe. It ensures animals can be identified if they are lost and supports Peace Officers when responding to bylaw concerns. A little awareness goes a long way in keeping High River a safe, pet-friendly place for all.

Whether you are a new pet owner or renewing a license you’ve had for years, understanding the Animal Bylaw helps prevent issues before they happen.

Why Licensing Matters
Licensing plays an important role in reuniting lost pets with their owners and helps Peace Officers during animal investigations, impoundments, and dangerous or nuisance animal enforcement actions. A valid license provides quick identification when it matters most.

Who Needs an Animal License?
All dogs kept within the Town of High River must be licensed. Licenses are issued to the animal owner, the person who has care, custody, possession, or control of the dog. License holders must be at least 18 years of age.

License Renewal Requirements
Animal licenses must be renewed annually. License fees must be paid before a license is issued or renewed, and fees for licensing or replacement tags are outlined in the Town of High River Rate Bylaw.

Penalties for Not Licensing Your Pet
Keeping an animal without a valid license is an offence under the Animal Bylaw. Ensuring your dog is licensed and up to date helps you avoid penalties and supports responsible pet ownership.

Responsible pet ownership helps keep our community safe, for people and for pets. Taking the time to license and renew your pet’s license each year is a simple step that makes a big difference.

Animal Care & Control – Being a Responsible Pet Owner 

High River is proud to be a pet-friendly community. Being a responsible pet owner helps keep our neighbourhoods safe, clean and enjoyable for everyone. Under the Town's Animal Bylaw, pet owners are expected to follow a few important guidelines.  

Pets must be properly controlled at all times. Dogs are required to be on a leash unless they are in a designated off-leash area. Off-leash dogs can create unsafe situations for other pets, their owners, and wildlife.  

Cleaning up after your pet is essential. Always pick up your pet's waste and dispose of it appropriately. Doing your part helps maintain clean parks, pathways, and public spaces.  

Pet owners are also responsible for ensuring their animals do not become a nuisance to neighbours, the public, or the natural environment. This includes keeping excessive barking to a minimum, never leaving a dog tied up and unattended, and respecting restricted spaces.  

Residents can also help protect High River's environment by preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. Goldfish and other aquarium or marine life must never be released into local lakes, storm ponds, or rivers. Releasing invasive species is illegal in Canada and can cause serious harm to native ecosystems, damage that is costly for taxpayers to repair. If you have unwanted aquarium pets, return them to a local pet store or contact the Alberta Government at 1-855-366-BOAT (2628) for guidance. 

Responsible pet ownership makes a real difference. By following the Animal Bylaw and being mindful of others, residents help keep High River a safe, healthy, and welcoming place for all.