It’s that time of year again when drivers are reminded about pedestrian safety around school zones.
As summer break draws to a close and school resumes next week, the Delta Police Department (DPD) is highlighting the importance of driving safe as roads will see increased foot traffic, particularly around school zones.
Pedestrians are reminded to stay visible by wearing bright or reflective clothing, use crosswalks and always look both ways before crossing. Pedestrians are also reminded to avoid distractions like phones and stay fully aware of their surroundings.
Drivers are reminded to reduce speed and be mindful of pedestrians and school buses, as well as ensuring they are cautious at crosswalks.
Drivers need to give themselves extra time to get to their destinations and remember the speed limit in school zones and in playground zones.
According to ICBC, in B.C. every year, on average, three children are killed and 359 are injured in crashes while walking or cycling.
In school and playground zones, 51 children are injured in crashes every year.
Every school day, unless otherwise posted, a 30 km/h speed limit is in effect in school zones from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In playground zones, a 30 km/h speed limit is in effect every day from dawn to dusk.
Meanwhile, the city’s Transportation Advisory Committee was recently updated on a Delta school zone safety project completed this year.
The city installed 30 speed humps and raised crosswalks in all school zones.
City staff noted that the initiative was well received, and the city has received requests for additional speed humps on adjacent roadways.
