Six driving tips to keep kids safe in school zones

School zones are busy places with kids and adults walking or wheeling, and cars and buses dropping-off or picking-up students. Unfortunately, people in BC often report seeing poor driving in school zones that puts pedestrians and other drivers at risk. Results from a recent survey we conducted highlight how common unsafe driving is around BC schools:

• 91% of respondents reported witnessing speeding in school zones
• 84% saw drivers distracted behind the wheel
• Over 80% have seen drivers fail to stop for students at marked crosswalks or pedestrian bump-outs

Of those surveyed, 59% worry they’ll see the same or worse driving in the year ahead.

With increased traffic in school zones comes a need for extra attention from parents and caregivers, along with drivers who are passing through these busy spaces. Here is how you can make school zones safer for everyone.

1. Build in time to prevent rushing. We understand the pressure parents can feel when it comes to dropping off and picking up their children. Your to-do list is long and there’s never enough time in your day. That’s why we recommend you anticipate school zone congestion and give yourself extra time to get through it safely. Try keeping to a morning routine to make sure everyone stays on track, or prep, backpacks, clothes and lunches before bedtime.
2. Expect the unexpected. Look out for safety risks such as kids darting from cars, kids who are on wheels, and other pedestrians.
3. Follow school zone rules. Respect your school’s drop off and pick up procedures. Be mindful of traffic rules such as driving within the speed limit, stopping at marked crosswalks and avoiding distracted driving. If you’re not familiar, brush up on the laws on driving in BC school zones.
4. Reduce congestion. Leave the car at home (or park blocks away) and then walk or cycle with your child. You’ll avoid the traffic and share some time together along the way.
5. Focus on what you can control. No matter what’s going on around you, be patient and courteous. Reacting with extreme frustration may aggravate the situation and increase the risk of unsafe behaviours.
6. Obey crossing guards and watch for buses. Always come to a complete stop when an adult crossing guard or student patroller signals you to do so. Be extra cautious around school buses and never pass a bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.

Interested in helping keep students safe in your community?

Together, we create a safer and more protected province for everyone who calls BC home. The BCAA School Safety Patrol Program (SSP) has been keeping children in school zones safe since 1929. We are proud to have over 1000 students participate in SSP, each acting as leaders and making our BC communities safer.

BCAA can provide all the equipment and training resources to run a safe and successful program in your school, free of charge.

Interested in registering to set up a program in your school? Learn more about the BCAA School Safety Program here.

BC is Ours to Protect

Find out more about our commitment to protecting the people and province of BC here.