Driver and pedestrian safety reminders during the summer months

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Regular classes may be out for the summer, but Surrey Schools is reminding drivers and pedestrians to be as vigilant as ever when out and about, especially around school zones.

With summer learning programs in session, students are still at many of our school sites. And parks and playgrounds are always being used by families, children and youth out enjoying the warmer weather and longer days.

It’s important to remain mindful of the following safety tips to ensure everyone has a safe and relaxing summer:

Reminders for drivers

Be aware of the speed limit: While many schools are out of session for the summer, many others are hosting summer learning programs. School zone speeds are still in effect for these sites. Some may be indicated with a ‘Summer School’ sign below the normal school zone sign, but not all. Please be cautious near all schools, every day.

In addition, many schools are located near park spaces and playgrounds. For all designated park zones, the speed limit is 30km/h from dawn to dusk.

Scan crosswalks and intersections before driving through: Be sure to scan from left to right as you approach any potential crossing areas, especially when near schools, parks and play areas.

Watch what other drivers are doing: If a vehicle slows down in front of your or in the next lane, they may be slowing down for an unseen pedestrian. Proceed with caution and prepare to stop.

Give yourself room to stop: When traveling around schools and park zones, you should be prepared to react quickly if a child or other pedestrian suddenly appears in the road.

Leave the phone and other distractions out of sight: According to ICBC, drivers are 3.6 times more likely to crash when on their phones. It is illegal to use hand-held devices when driving in B.C., and drives with their L or N are not allowed to make use of electronic devices even with a hands-free system.

Reminder for pedestrians

Only cross at marked crosswalks: For the safety of yourself and those around you, do not cross the street unless at a marked or controlled crosswalk. Drivers are less likely to stop if you begin crossing in an unmarked section of the road.

Look both ways before crossing: Confirm that you are aware of any traffic in the area and are crossing at a safe time in a designated crossing.

Make sure any crossing lights are working: If you’re at a crossing with buttons and a light, make sure the lights are flashing and alerting drivers before crossing.

Make eye contact with any drivers approaching the crosswalk: Make eye contact with any drivers approaching the crosswalk you’re in to ensure that they see you and are slowing down.

Reminders for parents & guardians

Drop your child off in a safe area: When dropping off a child for a summer program or event, have them exit and enter the vehicle from the side closest to the sidewalk or roadside. Warn them not to cross the street mid-block.

Be aware of your surroundings before moving your car: Make sure you scan thoroughly to ensure there are no children or pedestrians around your vehicle before starting it and moving or backing up.

For more on driver and pedestrian safety, head over to ICBC’s page on Road Safety. You can also review the Surrey Schools safety sheet on school parking and traffic safety.

Have a safe and fun summer vacation!