School bus safety tips for students

Published 12:00 am Thursday, August 16, 2012

• Always walk on the sidewalkto the bus stop, never run. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left facing traffic.
• Go to the bus stop about five 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.
• Speak quietly on the bus so the driver will not be distracted. Be silent when a bus comes to a railroad crossing so the driver can hear if a train is coming.
• 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.
• Never play with the emergency exits. Large instruments or sports equipment should not block the aisle or emergency exits.
• Hands should be kept to yourself at all times while riding on the bus. Fighting and picking on others creates danger.
• If you leave something on the bus, never return to the bus to get it. The driver may not see you come back and she may begin moving the bus.
• 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 10 steps away from the bus to be out of the “Danger Zone” and where the driver can see you.
• Make sure that drawstrings and other loose objects are secure before getting off the bus so that the do not get caught on the handrail or the door.
• Always cross the street in from of the bus. Never go behind the bus. If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver before you attempt to pick it up, so they 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 you parents if a stranger tries to talk to you or pick you up.
— N.C. Bus Safety website