With back-to-school season in full swing, Penticton RCMP is urging families to be mindful when sharing photos of their children's milestones and other personal information on social media.

Police say sharing information online like a child’s name, age, school name, grade level, and location can used by strangers with "malicious intent to target children or commit identity theft."

"While it’s natural to want to share these proud moments with friends and family, it’s important to remember that what you post online can be seen by more than just your intended audience, said Const. Kelly Brett from the Penticton RCMP. "Even with privacy settings in place, personal information can still be accessed by strangers."

To help families stay safe online, Penticton RCMP has released the following tips:

• Avoid showing identifiable information

• Check privacy settings

• Consider the background of your photos, including any viable landmarks, street signs, or house numbers

• Delay posting until the next day or after, to prevent real-time tracking of your child's location

• Discuss online safety with your child

Police are also reminding the public about Penticton's new traffic rules around school zones.

As of next week, a permanent 30 km/h speed limit will be in effect — 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Officers will be "actively enforcing" the new local requirement, police said.

"Safety is our top priority, and strict enforcement will help protect our community’s children," Brett added.