Safe School Zones

Safe school zones (SSZ) are designated areas around educational institutions where measures such as reduced speed limits, improved signage, crossing guards, and traffic-calming infrastructure are implemented to protect children from road-related hazards. By slowing vehicular traffic, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist visibility, and optimizing routes for walking or cycling, these zones significantly decrease road fatalities and injuries among children and young people. Over 17 million children are commuting between home and school 2-4 times per day, but the concept of safe school zones with reduced speed limits and appropriate road infrastructure often does not exist, particularly in lower-middle-income countries. Many children share the road with speeding trucks and have no sidewalks to walk on, where standardised school zones do not yet exist. Traffic speeds around schools frequently, and significantly, exceed internationally recommended school zone speed limit.

Globally, FIA Foundation has worked with CHI partners on SSZ piloting, implementation, and advocacy to foster safer journeys to school whilst encouraging more active commutes, helping to reduce congestion, lower carbon emissions, and encourage healthier lifestyles. SSZ also contribute to broader community well-being by strengthening local engagement, improving public spaces, and emphasizing road safety awareness, ultimately creating more liveable and inclusive environments for everyone.