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Minister for Police and Minister for Corrective Services, the Honourable Mark Ryan MP and the Member for Gaven, Meaghan Scanlon, joined Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Mike Keating to officially launch the back to school road safety campaign.

As Queensland students commence the school year tomorrow, police are reminding motorists to remain vigilant and alert in school zones.

The back to school period is traditionally a busy time on the state’s road network, particularly in the vicinity of schools, including student pedestrians and cyclists travelling to and from school.

Assistant Commissioner Keating said police would be coordinating a state-wide traffic policing initiative designed to reduce serious injury and fatal traffic crashes.

These will occur around school zones from Tuesday, January 28 to Friday, January 31, which will also conclude the Christmas/ New Year road safety campaign, Operation Romeo Sleigh.

“Police emphasis will be focused on, but not limited to, direct community attention to speed, impaired driving, fatigue, seat belt use, driver distraction/inattention, and pedestrian and bicycle safety,” Assistant Commissioner Keating said.

“I urge parents and guardians to familiarise themselves with school drop-off and pick-up practices and to obey the road rules around school zones, in particular the 40km/h speed zone.”

Minister Ryan said the first day of school was a very exciting day, particularly for students who were attending school for the first time.

“We are urging motorists to slow down and abide by the reduced speed limits while approaching and driving through marked school zones.

“The Queensland Government and the Queensland Police Service will be supporting parents, carers and school staff in ensuring the safety of their children by providing a visible presence in and around schools, starting tomorrow,” Minister Ryan said.

Gaven MP Meaghan Scanlon said it was important everyone in the community made a real effort to keep the roads safe around schools

“Please be patient, slow down and be on the lookout for children travelling to and from school, whether on foot, riding on bike, in a car or using public transport,” Ms Scanlon said.