School Bus Safety Starts at the Stop
National School Bus Safety Week is observed the third full week of October each year – though of course it is important all school year long! School bus safety is not just the responsibility of the bus driver, or the students/parents/teachers, or the other drivers on the road – everyone plays a role in ensuring our students of all ages make it to the classroom and home again safely each and every day.
Safety Tips for Drivers:
- Never pass a school bus when its lights are flashing. If the bus is flashing yellow lights, prepare to stop and assume you won’t make it before the lights change to flashing red. Never pass a school bus from behind, and never pass a school bus in oncoming traffic if its red lights are flashing and the stop sign bar is out. Wait until the flashing lights stop and the stop sign bar is not displayed before proceeding.
- Watch out for pedestrians and students at bus stops during the morning commute and when school lets out in the afternoon. Kids who are late to the bus stop may be running and distracted. Respect directions from crossing guards in school zones.
Safety Tips for Parents & Students:
- Arrive at the bus stop early and stay 3 giant steps away from the curb. Rushing increases distractions for everyone.
- Wait for the signal. Allow the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching to board, and when disembarking, wait for the bus driver to give a clear signal it is safe to cross the street. Never cross behind the bus, and never chase a dropped item – let the bus driver know before retrieving such an item.
- Be a respectful rider. Stay seated, keep your voice down, and don’t throw things. Pick up any trash – leave the bus as clean as you found it. Be prepared to get off the bus – keep your belongings organized.
Resources:
www.schoolbus.org/national-school-bus-safety-week/
