Surrey Schools shares safety tips for darker school mornings

B.C. remains on Pacific Time year-round, so many students will leave for school in the dark this fall and winter. Surrey Schools has compiled travel-safety and healthy-routine tips for the season, including advice from Fraser Health.

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

**On the way:** Wear bright or reflective clothing or use reflectors. Cross at marked crosswalks and obey 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 hear and see what is approaching. Keep front and rear bike lights on for the entire ride.

**Behind the wheel:** Drive more slowly than usual near schools and obey school-zone speed limits. Make sure headlights are fully on; daytime running lights alone are not enough. Watch for people in places that can be hard to see, including intersections, crosswalks, school zones and shared paths. Leave your phone alone until you are parked. Use your school’s designated drop-off area and follow its procedures.

**Looking after yourself this season:** Shorter days can affect mood, energy and sleep, including for children and teens. Fraser Health suggests getting outdoors in 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. More tips are available at fraserhealth.ca/setfortheseason.