WITH children returning to school next week, B.C. roads will be busier than ever. ICBC is asking drivers to give themselves extra travel time so they aren’t rushing and to avoid any distractions. Drivers need to be focused on the road and watch for children, especially in or around school zones.

Every year, 370 children are injured in crashes while walking, cycling or skateboarding and six are killed throughout the province.

Police and Speed Watch volunteers will be closely monitoring drivers’ speeds in school zones across the province to help children get a safe start to the school year.

Every year, 72 children are injured in crashes in school and playground zones in B.C.

Parents are encouraged to review the rules of the road with their children and go over their daily route to and from school.

Tips for drivers:

• 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.

• When you’re dropping off your children in school zones, allow them to exit the car on the side closest to the sidewalk. Never allow a child to cross mid-block.

• If a vehicle’s stopped in front of you or in the lane next to you, they may be yielding to a pedestrian, so proceed with caution and be prepared to stop.

• Watch for school buses. Vehicles approaching from both directions must stop for school buses when their lights are flashing.

• Before getting into your vehicle, walk around it to make sure no small children are hidden from your view. Always look for pedestrians when you’re backing up.

Tips for parents and kids:

• Review ICBC’s child pedestrian safety tip sheet with your children and post it in your home.