POLICE are reminding motorists to drive with caution in school zone safety areas and save young lives as children start the new academic year.

Childers Police Sergeant Geoff Fay said police will continue to watch school zones in the district over the coming weeks, with officers targeting speeding and breaches of no-standing areas.

Sgt Fay urged motorists to pay attention and abide by the school zone signage speed limits and reminded parents to park in designated areas to ensure children are not put at risk by walking out onto roadways between parked cars.

"Young children are especially vulnerable when it comes to traffic because it is impossible for them to accurately judge the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles," Sgt Fay said.

"Police would also like to urge parents to familiarise themselves with school drop-off and pick-up practices and discuss with their children rules for school zones.

"Following the directions of school crossing supervisors and allowing a little extra time for your trip because of the increase in traffic around schools will go a long way towards ensuring the safety of children."

Sgt Fay said parents should also take the time to educate their children in the basics of road safety, particularly children starting school for the first time.

FAST FACTS

Speed limits in school zones

40 km/h on roads where the existing limit is 50/60/70 km/h.

60 km/h on roads where the existing limit is 80 km/h.

60 km/h or 80 km/h on roads where the speed limit is 90/100 km/h, depending on the amount of school related activity on or near the road.

80 km/h on roads where the existing limit is 110 km/h.