Operation School is underway and will continue through February in an effort to keep Christchurch children safe as they return to school.

During the operation to date Police have issued 292 speeding tickets to motorists speeding past schools.

"The vast majority of motorists understand the risks associated with speeding, particularly near schools where our children are running around. But clearly the message isn't getting through to some," says Canterbury Road Policing Manager Inspector Al Stewart.

"Speed affects the likelihood and impact of all crashes. Small reductions in speed can greatly increase the chances of surviving a crash, particularly for pedestrians, cyclists, and children.

"The simple fact is that speed kills kids. Police will be strictly enforcing speed limits near schools and those caught speeding can expect to receive a ticket," says Inspector Stewart.

The next two weeks will also see the Christchurch City Council Enforcement Unit working with Police to monitor driver behaviour at pick up and drop off times.

"Pick up and drop off times are something that parents, whanau and caregivers need to be careful about. It's not okay to park on yellow lines or double park.

"This causes congestion and confusion for other motorists and increases the risks for children crossing the road or cycling to school," Inspector Stewart says.

Police also urge motorists to be extra vigilant and to slow down when approaching school crossings.

"Last year saw a record low road toll nationally and the second lowest on record in Canterbury. Christchurch police and the Christchurch City Council want to help keep our youngest road users safe and ensure our roads are increasingly free of fatal and serious injury crashes," says Inspector Stewart