What should you do when you encounter a school zone sign?

Answer: B — Reduce speed and watch for children

When encountering a school zone sign, it is important to reduce your speed and be especially vigilant for children. School zones are designated areas near schools where children are likely to be present, particularly during the times when school begins and ends. By decreasing your speed, you increase your reaction time and ability to respond to any sudden movements that children may make, such as crossing the street or running into the roadway. In addition to reducing speed, the need to watch for children is critical. Children may be unpredictable, and they might not be aware of the dangers of traffic. Being alert will help to ensure the safety of all road users. The speed limit in school zones is often lower than regular speed limits to reflect this increased risk. Other options, such as continuing at the same speed or only stopping when crossing guards are present, do not address the need for caution and attentiveness when in proximity to children. Turning on hazard lights is typically used to indicate a stopped or slowed vehicle, but it does not fundamentally mitigate the risk posed in school zones. Therefore, reducing speed and staying alert for children is the most appropriate and responsible action in these situations.