Signage around school and children’s areas!
Children’s safety is among the most important priorities for any society. In areas with intensive child presence – such as schools, kindergartens and playgrounds – proper signage can be literally life-saving. Whether it involves clearly visible road signs, speed bumps, or electronic boards, every solution must comply with regulations and the specifics of the location.

In this article, we will look at the most effective and proven solutions for signage around school and children’s areas, the requirements under Bulgarian legislation, and why choosing certified products and professional installation is critically important.

1. Warning road signs – the foundation of safety

The most recognisable form of signage is road signs. In zones with educational institutions, sign A18 – “Caution! Children” – must be present. It is placed in a visible spot before the school and serves as a warning for drivers to reduce speed.

Additionally, the following are used:

• Speed limits (sign B33) – usually up to 30 km/h;

• Overtaking bans or parking bans;

• Pedestrian crossing signs (sign B17 and sign D17), which are mandatory when a zebra crossing is present.

It is important that these signs are certified, with retroreflective sheeting class II or III, and correctly positioned regarding visibility and angle of travel for signage around school and children’s areas.

2. Road marking and highly visible “zebra” crossings

Pedestrian crossings in front of schools and kindergartens must be executed with high-quality horizontal marking, wear-resistant and with maximum reflectivity. It is recommended to use cold plastic, thermoplastic paint or high-durability paints that retain their properties even under intense traffic and climatic loads.

In addition to classic zebra crossings, good practices also include road inscriptions such as “SCHOOL” or “CHILDREN”, which attract drivers’ attention.

3. Speed bumps – speed control

Physical speed-reduction measures are also essential. Speed bumps must meet standards for height and length, being clearly marked with signs and markings.

It is recommended to use modular rubber or recycled rubber speed bumps with reflective elements, resistant to UV rays, cold, and heavy loads for signage around school and children’s areas.

4. Light and electronic boards for increased visibility

In many Bulgarian municipalities, electronic boards are also used, which display the current speed of the vehicle and warn of proximity to a school or playground. They are particularly effective on busy roads and during early or late hours of the day when visibility is reduced.

Additionally, the following can be used:

• Solar warning lights that activate upon motion;

• Intelligent speed control systems linked to video surveillance;

• Automatic LED signs that activate during school hours.

5. Barriers, anti-parking devices and fencing

Physically separating the pavement from the roadway with anti-parking bollards, fencing or cones plays a key role in children’s safety. This prevents illegal parking in front of schools and reduces the risk of accidents.

The devices must be:

• Made of durable materials (steel, rubber, polymer);

• Clearly marked and with reflective elements;

• Securely installed, without risk of displacement or tilting.

6. What does Bulgarian legislation require?

According to Regulation No. 18 on road signage with traffic signs, as well as Regulation No. 1 on traffic organisation, all solutions in school zones must meet specific requirements:

• Placement of signs at least 50 m before the educational institution;

• Speed limit within the zone;

• Visible and maintained road markings;

• Physical speed-reduction measures;

• Special measures for playgrounds in inter-block spaces.

When constructing or rehabilitating such a zone, a traffic organisation project must be prepared, which is approved by the respective municipality.

7. Why choose a certified supplier of signage around school and children’s areas?

At SignalPro, we offer a complete range of solutions for school and children’s zones, from road signs and markings to innovative electronic systems. All our products:

• Are certified to BDS and EU requirements;

• Comply with the current regulations in Bulgaria;

• Are manufactured from durable materials with a long lifespan;

• Are installed by a professional team with experience in high-sensitivity zones.

Signage around school and children’s areas is not just another traffic measure – it is a guarantee of life. Applying the right solutions, aligned with standards and practical logic, can save lives and increase the sense of security among parents, teachers and children.

If you are looking for a reliable partner for the design, supply and installation of signage around school and children’s zones – SignalPro is here to help you.