School zones have an ongoing issue with speeding and reckless driving, which, unfortunately, is likely not news to you. It can seem difficult to stop such a persistent problem, especially when it seems like traffic signs and crossing guards just aren’t enough to keep drivers vigilant about safety. Thankfully, technology has continued to evolve when it comes to signaling to drivers that they need to slow down, pay attention, and take careful note of their surroundings—especially in a school zone. The evolution of technology has led to the development of a solar powered flashing beacon for use in school zones. But does it actually work? The Department of Energy certainly seems to think so!
How They Work
The lights in these flashing beacons tend to be LEDs, to ensure that they last long and require as little power as possible. The solar panel often sits at the top of the beacon, angled to catch the sun. Below that is the warning light, and further below that, drivers can catch sight of a sign displaying the speed limit. Some beacons use sensors to alert you to when you’re speeding as well, flashing until you slow down enough. Hence, you’ll often find these types of beacons in areas where speeding is a frequent issue.
How Solar Powered Flashing Beacon Work For School Zones
Flashing lights are one of the few things that can quickly grab a driver’s attention. Usually, it’s because these lights are often associated with police vehicles, ambulances, or fire trucks. Sometimes these lights are connected to crosswalks in high traffic areas. Now, flashing beacons are more frequently used in school zones to reduce speeding. This is done by intermittently flashing an amber or yellow light, the light associated with “slow down” on your standard traffic light.
By adding in these beacons at schools, the risk of speeding and injury are greatly reduced, the likelihood that drivers will pay better attention to their surroundings is increased. Drivers are reminded to slow down, and forewarned that they are entering an area that has heavy foot traffic or children. In return, this reduces the risk of kids or pedestrians getting hit by drivers who don’t realize they’re going too fast, or are in a speed-enforced zone.
You’ll commonly find these beacons in areas where the sun shines the brightest and manufactured by companies. With solar power, the beacons aren’t a drain on city resources, and can be easily and safely maintained and operated. Overall, these beacons of the future are really making a difference when it comes to school zone safety.
