COLLEGE STATION — For 23 million students nationwide, the school day begins and ends with a trip on a school bus. The greatest risk is not riding the bus, but approaching or leaving the bus. In 1995, 23 student pedestrians were killed nationwide in school bus loading/unloading zones. Before children go back to school or start school for the first time, it is important that adults and children know school bus safety rules.
Every school bus is surrounded by a danger zone. A danger zone consists of the 10 feet in front of the bus, and on all other sides of the bus that are used for loading and unloading the bus.
Following a few simple school bus safety tips will ensure that all children are safe around the danger zones of a school bus. 1.) Children should arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes early to prevent running up to the bus stop when the bus is approaching. 2.) As the bus approaches, stand at least 6 feet away from the curb. 3.) Wait for the bus driver to signal before entering the bus. 4.) Use hand rails to avoid falls. 5.) When crossing in front of a bus, wait for the driver to signal before crossing. 6.) Be sure the driver can see you at all times. Just because a child can see the driver does not mean the driver always sees the child. 7.) Always look left-right-left before crossing the street. 8.) Never walk behind the school bus. 9.) If you drop something, notify the driver immediately. Never try to pick it up.
chool bus safety is everyone’s business. Parents should take time to be sure children know and obey the rules of school bus safety. For more information on school bus safety contact the Passenger Safety Education Office with the Texas Agricultural Extension Service at (979) 845-3850, or contact your local County Extension Agent.
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