Tips for a Safe Ride

School buses are the safest way for students to travel, but children also need to do their part to stay alert and aware of their surroundings to prevent injury.

Getting on the Bus:

• When waiting for the bus, stay away from traffic and avoid roughhousing or other behavior that can lead to carelessness

• Do not stray onto the street, alleys or private property

• Line up away from the street or road as the bus approaches

• Wait until the bus has stopped and the door opens before approaching the bus

• Use the handrail when boarding

Behavior on the Bus:

• Don't speak loudly or make loud noises that could distract the driver

• Stay in your seat

• Don't put your head, arms or hands out the window

• Keep aisles clear of books and bags

• Get your belongings together before reaching your stop

• Wait for the bus to stop completely before getting up from your seat

Getting Off the Bus:

• Use the handrail when exiting

• If you have to cross in front of the bus, first walk at least 10 feet ahead until you can see the driver

• Make sure the driver can see you

• Wait for a signal from the driver before crossing

• When the driver signals, look left, right, then left again. Walk across the road and keep an eye out for sudden traffic changes

• If your vision is blocked, move to an area where you can see other drivers and they can see you

• Do not cross the center line of the road until the driver signals it is safe

• Stay away from the rear wheels of the bus at all times

Safety Smarts – Know the Danger Zone

• The 10 giant steps (or 3 meters) rule is a good measurement for children to identify the danger zone around the school bus, particularly when crossing in front of the bus.

• Children should never enter the danger zone unless the bus driver has given them permission.

• If a child can touch the bus, he or she is too close.

• Remember – if you cannot see the bus driver, the bus driver cannot see you.

• When near a bus, the children must have the attention of the bus driver.

• Children should never play around or near school bus vehicles.

Reminders

• Wait until the bus has stopped and the door opens before approaching the bus

• Wait for the bus to stop completely before getting up from your seat

• If you have to cross in front of the bus, first walk at least 10 feet ahead until you can see the driver and wait for the driver to signal all clear before crossing the road

• Stay away from the rear wheels of the bus at all times

• Children should never play around or near school bus vehicles.