School Bus Safety Guidelines

Some school buses in our area are already on the roads every morning. But the majority will be running starting next week. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration deems school buses the safest way for students to travel. But your kids need to do their part. So here are some suggestions to share with your children:

Getting on the bus:

• While waiting, stay away from traffic and no horseplay! That can lead to carelessness.
• As the bus approaches, line up away from the street.
• Wait until the bus has completely stopped and the door opens before approaching the bus.
• Use the handrail when climbing aboard.

On the bus:

• Stay in your seat.
• Don’t distract the driver.
• No arms, legs or heads out the windows!
• Keep the aisle clear.
• Wait for the bus to stop completely before getting up.

Getting off the bus:

• Use the handrail.
• If you have to cross in front of the bus, walk at least 10 feet ahead so you can see the driver and the driver can see you.
• Always look left, right and left again before crossing.
• Stay away from the rear wheels of the bus at all times.

Currently, buses in North Carolina and South Carolina are not required to have seatbelts for students. And the NHTSB feels seatbelts are unnecessary. However, it is a common debate especially at this time of year. So go to our Facebook page and like it; then you’ll receive updates to the debate as they occur.