School Bus Safety

BCS School Bus
Walking to the Bus Stop
• Always walk on the sidewalk to the bus stop, never run. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left facing traffic.
• Go to the bus stop about ten minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. While at the bus stop, wait quietly in a safe place well away from the road. Do not run and play while waiting.
 
Getting On and Off the Bus
• Enter the bus in line with younger students in front. Hold the handrail while going up and down the stairs.
• When entering the bus, go directly to a seat. Remain seated and face forward during the entire ride.
 
Riding the Bus
• Always speak quietly on the bus so the bus driver will not be distracted. Always be silent when a bus comes to a railroad crossing so the driver can hear if a train is coming.
• Never throw things on the bus or out of the windows. Keep the aisles clear at all times. Feet should be directly in front of you on the floor and book bags should be kept on your lap. Large instruments or sports equipment should not block the aisle or emergency exits.
• Never play with the emergency exits. Large instruments or sports equipment should not block the aisle or exits.
• If there is an emergency, listen to the driver and follow directions.
• Hands should be kept to yourself at all times while riding on the bus. Fighting and picking on others create a dangerous bus ride.
 
Exiting the Bus
• If you leave something on the bus, never return to the bus to get it. The driver may not see you come back and they may begin moving the bus. Make sure that drawstrings and other loose objects are secure before getting of the bus so that they do not get caught on the handrail or the door.
• Respect the “Danger Zone” which surrounds all sides of the bus. The: Danger Zone” is ten feet wide on all sides of the bus. Always remain ten steps away from the bus to be out of the “Danger Zone” and where the driver can see you.
• Always cross the street in front of the bus and wait on the driver to signal when to cross. Never go behind the bus. If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver before you attempt to pick it up, so the driver will know where you are.
• Never speak to strangers at the bus stop and never get into the car with a stranger. Always go straight home and tell your parents if a stranger tries to talk to you or pick you up.