School buses are probably the safest mode of transportation for children going to and from school. Because of its features (yellow color, compartmentalized design, secured seating, safety locks on doors, etc.), which make it unique from the other vehicles, a school bus is designed for the safety of its young passengers.
In addition to these safety features, the school drivers are well-trained.
To promote better safety, the school children should also be aware of the bus safety rules and protocols. While it’s a fact that school buses are safe for them to travel, it can also be a dangerous place if they act carelessly. It’s not unusual to encounter them running, turning around, and going about their antics while getting on and off the bus.
One of the duties of the school bus drivers is to keep an eye on the children as they enter and exit the bus. However, it should also be their responsibility to encourage the kids to adopt in-bus safety rules to ensure a smooth and hassle-free ride.
For the schoolchildren, here are the following bus safety tips that you should learn, follow, and maintain on and off the bus:
- Dress in a way so that the driver can easily see you. We recommend wearing bright colors.
- Be aware of dangling items (such as strings of a hoodie), so students can be careful to avoid becoming caught on the bus handrail when getting on and off the bus.
- Arrive at the bus stop earlier than the scheduled time of the bus stop.
- Remain standing at the bus stop, safely away from the road, as you wait for your school bus.
- As you wait for your school bus, pay attention to your surroundings. Watch the traffic signs and stay away from strangers.
- Avoid horseplay with your friends at the bus stop.
- Wait until the red flashing lights and the extended stop sign of the bus come on. After the red lights and the stop sign come on, check the traffic both ways to ensure it’s safe to cross. Make sure any approaching cars and other vehicles stop before crossing, as some cars don’t always stop for the school bus stop sign.
- Wait until the bus reaches the stop. Once it does, stand at least six (6) feet away from the curb and line up.
- Always listen to your school bus driver.
- Ask your school bus driver for help if you accidentally drop an item while getting on and off the bus.
- Keep your head and hand inside the bus. Never put your head and arms outside the bus.
- Don’t throw trash or other items out the bus window.
- Don’t lean against the window.
- Stay at least ten (10) steps in front of the bus to ensure that the driver can see you at all times.
- Do not walk behind the bus or near the wheels of the bus.
- Do not block the aisle inside the bus.
- For your own safety, remain in your seat until the bus comes to a complete stop. When the bus reaches the stop, get your bags and other items together and get off the bus promptly.
- Do not bother the bus driver. Avoid making loud, excessive noise as it could distract the driver and lead to an accident.
- If you have to talk to your seatmate, please do so quietly. Please don’t yell.
School bus safety is possible and can be successfully maintained with discipline and cooperation from the children. For more information and tips about keeping the children safe in and around the school bus, go to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Are you interested in working as one of the school bus drivers in Pennsylvania? Do you want to be a PA School Bus Driver Having a Positive Impact on Students? Are you aware of the duties and responsibilities? If you think you have what it takes to be a school bus driver, start your career by applying for any job openings on this link – https://schoolbushero.com/jobs.