Police Step Up School Zone Patrols As Students Return

With the start of the new school term, police from Highway Patrol and general duties have increased their presence in local school zones to help keep students, parents and teachers safe during peak drop-off and pick-up times.

Officers are stationed at schools at the beginning and end of each day to monitor traffic and address dangerous behaviours, including speeding, drink and drug driving, and parking offences. Speeding fines in school zones range from $333 to $1,919, with drivers facing between one and eight demerit points depending on the offence.

Police are urging parents and caregivers to take extra care when driving through school zones, reminding motorists to slow down, remain alert and use designated pick-up and drop-off areas wherever possible.

Drivers are also being asked to respect school crossing supervisors (lollypop men and ladies), who volunteer their time to help children and families cross roads safely.

Police say small decisions behind the wheel can have serious consequences and are reminding motorists that school zones are active environments where patience and caution are essential.

(Contributed with thanks by the Ingham Police Station)