Volunteers set up Surrey Traffic Safety five days a week around school zones, playground zones and high risk crash sites to raise awareness about road safety collecting data that is shared with the Surrey RCMP and ICBC. Volunteers support public awareness and education about safe practices behind the wheel.

Funded through grants from the City of Surrey and the Government of British Columbia the program is sponsored by Westland Insurance Group Ltd.

This program in Surrey was introduced in 1987, when the SCPS pioneered the use of electronic Radar Reader Boards.

Now volunteers use new technology including an “App” called “Speed Watch” where information is captured and uploaded for reporting to community partners. Volunteers record the speed of vehicles for and any distracted driving that is observed and this is recorded and shared with our community partners.

Engaging youth in traffic safety can have several significant benefits, both for young individuals and for the broader community. Here are some key benefits:
 

1.     Reduced traffic accidents: Educating and involving youth in traffic safety initiatives can lead to a reduction in traffic accidents and injuries. By raising awareness about road hazards, safe driving practices, and pedestrian safety, young people can become more responsible and cautious road users, helping to prevent accidents.

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2.     Improved road user behavior: Engaging youth in traffic safety promotes responsible and law-abiding behavior on the roads. By teaching them about traffic rules, proper use of safety equipment (e.g., seat belts, helmets), and the dangers of impaired or distracted driving, they can develop a better understanding of their role in ensuring road safety.

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3.     Enhanced risk perception and decision-making skills: Involving youth in traffic safety initiatives helps them develop better risk perception and decision-making skills. They become more adept at recognizing potential dangers and making informed choices while navigating the roads, contributing to safer road environments.

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4.     Empowerment and advocacy: Engaging youth in traffic safety empowers them to take an active role in promoting road safety within their communities. By participating in awareness campaigns, advocacy efforts, and peer education programs, young people become agents of change, influencing their peers, families, and communities to adopt safer behaviors.

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5.     Improved pedestrian safety: Youth are often pedestrians, and engaging them in traffic safety initiatives can improve their knowledge and awareness of pedestrian safety measures. This includes teaching them how to safely cross roads, follow traffic signals, and be vigilant around vehicles, reducing their vulnerability to pedestrian accidents.

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6.     Positive community impact: When youth actively participate in traffic safety initiatives, it contributes to a safer community for everyone. Their involvement helps raise awareness, promotes responsible behavior among their peers and family members, and fosters a culture of road safety within the community.

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7.     Life skills development: Engaging youth in traffic safety programs provides them with valuable life skills. These include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. Such skills are transferable and can benefit them in various aspects of their lives, beyond traffic safety.

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8.     Long-term behavior change: Engaging youth in traffic safety at an early age can create a foundation for long-term positive behavior change. By instilling safe road habits and attitudes during their formative years, it is more likely that these behaviors will become ingrained and carried into adulthood, leading to safer road environments in the future.

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