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Safety

School Bus written on blackboard with back of bus and stop sign with the word safety written on it
Bus Safety Rules

The safety of students on our school buses is our top priority. State law requires very specific safety precautions by bus drivers, students and family members as they meet their child's bus each day.

All students are assigned and required to use a specific school bus stop with a designated place of safety. 

Students should arrive at the designated place of safety for their bus stop 5 minutes prior to the scheduled bus arrival time.

Family members should:

  • Review the safety rules with their children and explain why the safety rules are important.
  • Dress children in light-colored clothing or jackets on dark mornings. Check clothing and backpacks for safety: Draw strings and key chains can catch on objects on the bus and create potential safety hazards. 
  • Help children to be ready at the stop before the bus is due to arrive.
  • If necessary, take turns with friends and neighbors supervising children at bus stops. 

 

Important Bus Safety Rules

  • Avoid the danger zone around the bus. The danger zone for a school bus is the entire area up to 10 feet around the bus. The two most dangerous places are the front of the bus and the right rear tire area. 
  • Never try to pick up dropped objects near the bus. The bus driver may not be able to see you. If it is something important, let the bus driver know.
  • Remember that some motorists fail to stop for a stopped school bus. 
  • Be careful getting on and off the bus.

 

Bus Warning Lights

  • Alternating flashing amber (yellow) lights are on to warn motorists that the bus is stopping to let students on or off the bus.
  • Alternating flashing red lights are on to warn motorists that the bus is stopped on the roadway to let students on or off the bus.
  • The STOP sign arm is engaged at the same time as the red flashing lights are turned on. A white flashing strobe light may also be used during unfavorable conditions or times of day that limit visibility, such as darkness, rain, fog and snow.
  • Four-way hazard lights are activated at all railroad crossings and turn-arounds. 
  • The school bus will have its four-way hazard lights and backup light on when preparing to back onto a side street to turn around.
  • Motorists must use caution when they approach a bus in the process of completing a turn-around.

 

Bus Safety for Motorists: Drivers must know the signals and laws regarding school buses to help keep students safe.

  • Do not pass a school bus that has red alternating flashing lights. This is the signal that the bus is stopped to load or unload students. Traffic should not move until the bus resumes motion or the driver signals traffic to proceed. 
  • When a bus has its alternating flashing amber lights on, it is preparing to stop to let students on or off the bus. BE READY TO STOP AND WATCH FOR CHILDREN N THE ROADWAY. 

 

 

 

 

Read More About State School Bus Safety Regulations HERE

 

Information from the Ohio Department of Education