School Bus Safety

School buses are one of the safest forms of transporting children to school. Every day, about 474,000 school buses transport more than 25 million students to and from school. But, each year, nationally, about 20 school aged children are killed in motor vehicle crashes that are school bus related. On average, 5 are passengers on the bus and 14 are pedestrians.

Through presentations and videos, Safety Service Managers from the Mid-Atlantic Foundation for Safety and Education are out in the school's teaching important tips on School Bus Safety.

TIPS FOR DRIVERS:

• Watch for children at bus stops and for children walking to and from bus stops.
• Yellow flashing lights on a school bus mean that a bus is preparing to stop. Do not try to beat the bus! Begin slowing and prepare to stop your vehicle.
• Red flashing lights indicate that a bus has stopped to load or unload children. Be very aware and pay close attention. Stop your car and wait for the lights to stop flashing before you move your vehicle. Passing a loading or unloading school bus is reckless driving!

AT THE BUS STOP:

• Get to the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
• Remain orderly at the bus stop and pay attention to traffic. This is no place to play.
• Obey the School Safety Patrol.
• Stand at least 5 giant steps (10 feet) away from the edge of the road.

WHEN ENTERING THE BUS:

• Wait until the bus stops, the door opens, and the driver says it's okay before stepping onto the bus.
• Be careful that clothing with drawstrings and book bags with straps or dangling objects do not get caught in the handrail or door when exiting the bus.
• If you must cross the road to enter the bus, walk in front of the bus; never walk behind the bus.
• Wait for a signal from the driver.

WHEN EXITING THE BUS:

• Walk on the sidewalk or along the side of the road to a point at least five giant steps (10 feet) ahead.
• Be sure the bus driver can see you, and you can see the bus driver.
• Stop at the edge of the bus and look left-right before crossing.
• Tell the bus driver if you drop something beside the bus. Never try to pick it up because the driver may not be able to see you.
• Be alert to all traffic.

ON THE BUS:

• Take your seat immediately.
• Always fasten your seat belt.
• Always sit fully in the seat and face forward.
• Obey the School Safety Patrol.
• DO NOT distract the bus driver.
• Never stand on a moving bus.
• Keep aisles clear at all times.
• Obey the driver.
• Speak in low voices.
• Never stick anything out the window...arms, legs, head, book bags, etc.

NOTE: Oncoming vehicles, separated by a physical barrier in the road, do not have to stop.

For additional information or to schedule a presentation regarding school bus safety, please contact the Mid-Atlantic Foundation for Safety and Education Safety Services Manager in your area.