(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — With school starting up soon, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO) is reminding drivers to be aware, and warning of the high costs of speeding in school zones.

EPSO said school days bring increased traffic congestion near school campuses with school buses picking up passengers, kids on bikes hurrying to school, and rushed parents dropping off their kids.

EPSO is working with other agencies across Pikes Peak to keep children safe traveling to and from school. Sheriff Joseph Roybal said EPSO’s School Resources Officers and Patrol Deputies are working to mitigate the risks of school zones and a zero-tolerance for speeding and distracted driving in designated areas.

EPSO shared that fines are doubled for speeding in school zones and are set at:

$120.50 for 1 to 4 MPH over the posted speed limit

$208.50 for 5 to 9 MPH over the posted speed limit

$351.50 for 10 to 19 MPH over the posted speed limit

$512.50 for 20 to 24 MPH over the posted speed limit

A Mandatory Court Summons for 25+ MPH over the posted speed limit

EPSO also gave the following tips for keeping pedestrians, especially kids, safe in school zones:

Adjust your route to avoid school zones

Slow down, school zones tend to be five to 10 miles per hour below the posted speed

Stop for buses, EPSO said Colorado law requires you stop your vehicle at least 20 feet before reaching a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing, whether it is on your side of the road, the opposite side, or at an intersection you are approaching. The exception is if the bus travels in your direction on a roadway separated by a median or other physical barrier

Watch for pedestrians

Give yourself extra time if you must drive through a school zone

Avoid using your cell phone or looking for something in your car while driving in a zone with pedestrians

“It’s never more important for drivers to slow down and pay attention than when kids are present—especially before and after school,” writes EPSO.