School crossing patrols

1. Not ready to cross pedestrians

When the school crossing patrol stands on the pavement holding the stop sign down by their side, it means pedestrians are not yet ready to cross. At this stage, the patrol is simply monitoring the situation — perhaps waiting for a safe moment or for more children to gather. Drivers should continue as normal, keeping an eye on the patrol in case their signal changes. There’s no need to slow down unless the patrol steps forward or raises the sign.

2. Barrier to stop pedestrians crossing

When the patrol steps slightly forward and holds the sign horizontally, positioned between themselves and the pedestrians, it acts as a clear barrier. This signal tells pedestrians to stay on the pavement and not attempt to cross yet. For drivers, it means the patrol is preparing to stop traffic soon, so they should approach carefully and be alert for further signals.

3. Ready to cross pedestrians – vehicles must be prepared to stop

When the patrol raises the sign vertically so it faces approaching traffic, it signals that pedestrians are ready to cross. Drivers must be prepared to stop, even if the patrol has not yet stepped into the road. This is a warning stage — the patrol is checking that traffic is slowing and that it’s safe to move into the road to stop vehicles completely. Attentive drivers will begin easing off the accelerator and covering the brake.

4. All vehicles must stop

When the patrol stands fully in the road holding the stop sign upright and clearly visible to drivers, it means all traffic must stop. This command gives pedestrians the right of way to cross safely. Drivers must remain stationary until the patrol steps back onto the pavement and lowers the sign. Moving off too soon is both dangerous and illegal — drivers should wait until the patrol has clearly indicated that it’s safe to continue.