Zebra action returns in Kerkrade: Cross safely together!

We are once again calling attention to safety around the crosswalk this fall with a special guest: a life-size zebra! From September 15 through October 13, 2025, the zebra will pop up at various locations throughout the municipality with the sign "Attention: Zebra Crossing!" This eye-catching zebra is intended to make residents and road users aware of safety around crosswalks (VOPs).

What have we already done?

To make crossings as safe as possible, additional measures have been taken in recent years: reflective edges on traffic signs, better lighting, cat eyes and conspicuous attention boxes.

You make the difference!

There are more than 123 pedestrian crossings in the municipality of Kerkrade. As a driver (car, bicycle or scooter), you are obliged to give way to pedestrians and drivers of disabled vehicles crossing. 

What do you do when approaching a pedestrian crossing as a driver? 

A safe crosswalk is important for the safety of everyone but especially necessary for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, disabled and children. We'll give you a little refresher course on how to handle pedestrian crossings as a driver:
- Reduce your speed and be prepared to stop.
- Do not overtake other vehicles just before or on a pedestrian crossing.
- Be prepared for pedestrians you may not be able to see right away due to other vehicles, obstacles or crowds.
- Health to make sure you are not distracted by your phone, navigation or anything else while approaching a pedestrian crossing. 

What do you do when you cross yourself at a crosswalk? 

- Always stop on the sidewalk at the pedestrian crossing.
- Look carefully left, right and left again first to see if any cars or bikes are approaching.
- Make eye contact with the driver so you know he or she has seen you.
- Do not cross until the cars are actually stopped.

Winning

With these actions we not only want to make residents aware of traffic safety, but also let them actively participate in thinking about safety at pedestrian crossings and solutions.

Participate and win

Residents are invited to contribute ideas for a new traffic safety campaign. This may be about safety around crossings, but also about speeding cars or improperly parked cars, for example. The best and most creative idea wins two free tickets to the theater performance Het Geluk van Limburg.

How it works
- Submit your idea at gemeentehuis@kerkrade.nl along with your name and phone number.
- All ideas are first evaluated for safety and originality. The winning idea will not automatically be executed. We first check whether it is safe and feasible.

Coloring contest for children 

A coloring contest is organized especially for children. The winner will receive two free tickets to GaiaZOO!

Coloring pages will be distributed to all elementary schools in the community during the first week of the campaign. Didn't your son or daughter receive one, but would like to participate? You can pick up a coloring page at the Town Office reception desk starting Wednesday, Sept. 17.

Get started with the special zebra coloring page, fill in your details on the back of the coloring page and hand it in at the reception desk of the City Office no later than October 9, 2025.
Everyone who participates will win free tickets to GaiaZOO! So grab your pencils, markers or paint and color the zebra as beautifully as possible. Who knows, maybe you will be the lucky winner and you will soon go on an adventure in GaiaZOO!