Staying Safe

School buses are the safest way to get to and from school each day. However, there are a number of ways you can be sure to have the safest ride possible.

For students:

Be alert to traffic. Check both ways for cars before stepping off the bus.
Make eye contact with the bus driver, and wait for the bus driver's signal before crossing the street.
Walk in front of the bus; never walk behind the bus to cross the street.
While waiting for the bus, stay in a safe place away from the street.
Before leaving the sidewalk, look for the flashing red lights.
Never go under the bus to retrieve something you've dropped.

For parents:

Have your child ride the school bus to and from school instead of driving or riding with teenage passengers.
Review the above safety features with your child regularly.
Get to know the parents of other riders. You will learn about the other children who are riding along with your child.
Team with other parents to get involved and monitor bus stops and bus routes. Voice concerns immediately to your school district.
Attend “back to school” nights and tour your child’s school bus.
Get to know your school’s transportation coordinator and your child’s bus driver. He or she is a trained professional who sees your child every day; he or she would be happy to tell you about the safety features on the bus and the responsibility drivers have for keeping their young passengers safe. Keep phone numbers handy in case the bus is delayed or in the event of an emergency.
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