B.C. drivers face darker mornings as clocks stay on daylight time

A B.C.-based safety organization says roads in the province are about to become more dangerous for professional drivers and other motorists as clocks remain on daylight time. On Sunday, Nov. 1, B.C. will keep permanent daylight time, so sunrise will come later in winter. More work trips, morning commutes and school drop-offs will happen in darkness during a season when rain, fog and snow are more common.

Road Safety at Work, which aims to improve safety for people who drive for work or work roadside, is urging employers and drivers to prepare for reduced visibility and fatigue, and to consider changing their practices this winter. Todd McDonald, WorkSafeBC’s head of prevention services, says employers need to assess how changing conditions affect workers who drive for work and put appropriate controls in place to reduce risks.

Research indicates that prolonged morning darkness affects natural sleep cycles and may contribute to driver fatigue. Warning signs include frequent yawning, difficulty concentrating, drifting within a lane, sore eyes and difficulty remembering the last few kilometres.

Trace Acres, program director for Road Safety at Work, cautions that familiar roads carry changing risks under permanent daylight time. In darkness or low light, it is harder to spot hazards and react. Employers can help, Acres says, by adjusting schedules that require early-morning, nighttime or extended driving, if possible.

Road Safety at Work advises drivers to slow down when visibility is reduced this fall and winter, and leave more space between vehicles. Drivers should also check that headlights, tail lights, windshield wipers and defrosters work properly, and keep windows, mirrors and lights clean.

Meanwhile, Surrey Schools is offering tips for travelling safely and keeping healthy routines while B.C. remains on permanent daylight time, including advice from Fraser Health.

Before leaving: Keep bedtimes and wake-up times regular, and reduce screen use before bed. Less morning light can disrupt sleep, and well-rested students are more alert on the way to school. Plan a route using sidewalks, marked crossings and bike lanes, and choose well-lit streets where possible. Leave a few minutes earlier so no one has to hurry across a street. Add visibility with bright or reflective clothing, reflectors on backpacks and bikes, and a flashlight or bike lights so drivers can spot people sooner.

On the way: Wear bright or reflective clothing, or use reflectors to be more visible to drivers. Cross at marked crosswalks and follow signals. Make eye contact with drivers and wait until vehicles have fully stopped before stepping off the curb. Put away headphones and phones so you can see and hear what is coming. Keep front and rear bike lights on for the entire ride.

Behind the wheel: Drive more slowly than usual near schools and follow school-zone speed limits. Make sure headlights are fully on, rather than relying only on daytime running lights. Expect people in places that are hard to see, including intersections, crosswalks, school zones and shared paths. Leave the phone alone until parked. Use the school’s drop-off area and follow its procedures.

Looking after yourself: Shorter days can affect mood, energy and sleep, including for children and teens. Fraser Health suggests getting outside during daylight, staying active and keeping in touch with friends and family. If you or your child notice significant changes in sleep, energy or mood, talk to a health-care provider.