As summer comes to an end and a new school year begins, families everywhere are getting back into their school-day routines. With more school buses, children, parents and motorists on the roads, it’s an important time to review a few simple safety habits. Whether your child rides the bus every day or you’re sharing the road with school buses during your morning commute, everyone has a role to play in keeping students safe.
Here are 10 important school bus safety tips for the new school year:
- Arrive at the Bus Stop Early
Students should arrive at their bus stop about 5–10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. Arriving early helps prevent rushing and gives students plenty of time to wait safely away from traffic. Never run toward a bus that is approaching or already leaving the stop.
- Wait Away From the Road
Students should wait at five giant steps away from the roadway and avoid playing, pushing or running while waiting for the bus. When the bus arrives, wait until it has come to a complete stop and the door opens before approaching.
- Look Both Ways Before Crossing
If a student needs to cross the street to board or leave the bus, look left, right and left again before crossing. If you need to cross in front of the bus, make sure the driver can see you.
- Stay Out of the Danger Zone
Children should never walk too close to the bus. The area immediately around a school bus can have significant blind spots where the driver may not be able to see a child.
One of the most dangerous zones of the school bus is near the rear tires. Students should never run back to the bus for a forgotten item, or bend down near or under the bus if they drop something.
- Use the Handrails
When getting on or off the bus, use the handrails and take your time. Watch your step, especially during wet, snowy or icy weather.
- Stay Seated, Be Respectful and Keep Belongings Secure
Once on board, students should find a seat promptly, sit facing forward and remain seated while the bus is moving. Keep backpacks and other belongings out of the aisle. Students should also use an appropriate voice level, follow the driver’s instructions and never throw objects inside the bus or out the windows. A calm, orderly bus helps the driver stay focused on the road and the students around them.
- Keep the Aisle and Emergency Exits Clear
Students should keep backpacks, sports equipment, musical instruments and other belongings out of the aisle and away from emergency exits. A clear aisle allows students to move safely and ensures emergency exits are accessible if they are ever needed.
- Be Visible at Your Bus Stop
During early morning or evening routes, especially as the days get shorter, students should wear bright or reflective clothing when possible. If your child waits near a roadway, make sure the bus driver can easily see them. Students should never wait in a location where parked cars, bushes or other objects block the driver’s view.
- Be Extra Alert Around School Buses
Motorists have an important responsibility when sharing the road with school buses. Always slow down and be prepared to stop when a school bus is loading or unloading students. When the red warning lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, motorists must stop as required by state law. Never pass a stopped school bus.
- Follow the Bus Driver’s Instructions
School bus drivers are responsible for safely transporting students to and from school. Students should listen to their driver, follow the bus rules and speak up if they see an unsafe situation. A safe bus ride starts with everyone working together.
Let’s Make This School Year a Safe One
Back-to-school season is an exciting time for students, families and school communities. By practicing good safety habits around school buses, we can help make every trip to and from school a safe one.
