Helping children stand out on darker school mornings

November 12, 2026

As mornings get darker and fall and winter weather sets in, children walking, cycling, or scootering to school can be harder for drivers to see.

To help children stand out, ICBC’s local road safety coordinator Tanis Bieber joined Maple Ridge RCMP and its mascot Safety Bear, Maple Ridge Fire Department, and local crime prevention volunteers at Maple Ridge Elementary.

Tanis handed out free safety reflectors, and everyone connected with students, parents, and drivers to share a simple reminder: shorter days and changing weather mean we all need to take extra care on the road.

The reflectors were a hit! Some students proudly showed off the ones already decorating their backpacks, while others happily chose where to add their new reflector with its mountainscape design. That enthusiasm carried through the morning, with music, sticker sheets and even a few dance-offs with Safety Bear.

Reflectors can help children stand out in darker conditions, especially when attached to something that moves like a backpack, coat, or bag.

Schools across B.C. can request free reflectors for their students from November 9, 2026 to January 31, 2027, while supplies last.

While reflectors are a helpful tool, attentive driving is key. Slow down around schools and residential areas, stay focused, take extra care when turning or backing up, and be ready to stop at crosswalks.

Let’s all do our part to keep roads safe this fall. Find more tips at icbc.com/roadsafety.

Photos available

View select photos below, with more available to download in our media gallery from the November 9 visit to Maple Ridge Elementary.