What should a driver do when approaching a school zone?

When approaching a school zone, the appropriate action is to obey reduced speed limits. School zones are designated areas where children are likely to be present, and the reduced speed limits are put in place to ensure their safety. These limits are usually enforced during specific times when children are arriving or leaving school, and they are often clearly marked with signage indicating the speed limit along with the times during which it is in effect.

By adhering to the reduced speed limits, drivers can react more quickly to unexpected situations, such as children crossing the street or vehicles stopping suddenly. This is critical in preventing accidents and ensuring that everyone in the vicinity of the school zone remains safe.

The other options involve either speeding up or maintaining the current speed, which would disregard the safety protocols established in these areas. Shifting gears to speed up also does not align with the goal of creating a safe environment for schoolchildren. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the importance of caution and awareness in school zones.