School Bus Safety Rules

Rules for Getting on the Bus Safely

• Be at the bus stop 5 minutes prior to the arrival of the bus. Never run to or from the bus.
• Wait at your designated stop in a safe place, back from the side of the road.
• Remember never to stand in the danger zone that surrounds the bus. The danger zone is anywhere close enough for you to touch the bus.
• If you need to cross the street to get on the bus, always wait until the bus has come to a complete stop. Look for the stop arm to come out and for the flashing red lights. Watch the driver. When the driver is assured that all traffic has stopped he/she will signal for you to cross the street – but continue to watch for traffic yourself. Always walk, don’t run.
• Hold the handrail as you get on the bus. Do not push or shove.

Rules for Riding the Bus Safely

• Take your seat promptly and sit properly, facing forward at all times.
• Place bags and parcels under your seat or on your lap.
• Keep the aisle of the bus clear at all times.
• Always keep your head, hands and arms inside the bus.
• Throwing objects inside or outside of the bus is not permitted.
• Talk quietly; the driver needs to concentrate to safely drive the bus. Fighting, shouting, or use of obscene language is not permitted.
• Be absolutely quiet when approaching a railroad crossing.
• Participate in all bus evacuation procedures.
• Dangerous, disturbing, or annoying objects are not permitted on the bus.
• Eating and drinking (this includes chewing gum) is not allowed on school buses at any time. This rule protects students or drivers that have food allergies and anaphylaxis, prevents choking, and maintains bus cleanliness.
• Be aware that other students, including the bus driver, may have allergies to scents such as perfume, etc.
• Smoking is not permitted on the bus.
• Always follow the bus driver’s instructions

Rules for Leaving the Bus Safely

• Remain in the seat until the bus comes to a complete stop.
• When you leave the bus, hold the handrail and take two
• large steps away from the bus. To cross the street in front of the bus, walk ahead at least ten giant steps (three meters). Cross only when the driver
  gives a signal. Proceed across the street, looking both ways for on-coming traffic. Cross the street in single file.
• If everyone is getting off the bus, the people at the front leave first. Do not push.
• If you drop something near the bus, do not pick it up. Tell an adult.

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.