Mornings are getting darker and the days are getting shorter. In the months ahead, many students will head to school before it is fully light. A few simple steps can help everyone get there safely.

B.C. now stays on Pacific time all year, so clocks no longer change in the spring or fall. That means more daylight in the afternoon and darker mornings through the shorter days of the year.

However you get around, you can help make the school commute a little safer for everyone.

Walking and cycling: help drivers see you

Low light and wet weather make it harder for drivers to see people on foot or on bikes. If you walk or cycle, you can:

• Wear bright clothes or add reflective strips to backpacks and jackets.
• Use front and rear lights when cycling.
• Choose sidewalks and well-lit routes.
• Cross at marked crosswalks and follow traffic signals.
• Stop, look and listen before crossing.
• Make sure cars are stopped before stepping onto the road.
• Put phones and devices away.

Driving: slow down and stay alert

Drivers play a key role too. When driving near schools:

• Slow down and obey school-zone speed limits.
• Turn on your full headlights, not only daytime running lights.
• Watch for students at crosswalks and corners.
• Keep your eyes on the road and your phone out of reach.
• Leave a few extra minutes to avoid a rush.
• Follow your school’s directions when you drop off and pick up students.

Lighting at our schools

Outdoor lights at our schools turn on and off on their own. Sensors called photocells measure how bright it is outside so lights come on when needed. 

Safety is a shared job

Taking a little extra time, helping others see you and watching what’s around you can make the trip to and from school safer for everyone.