Bus Safety

These guidelines help families and drivers stay alert at the bus stop so tragedies like Bently's are less likely to happen again.

Stay at the stop with children who are too young to follow safety rules on their own.
Hold hands with toddlers near the curb and the street.
Do not leave children unattended while a bus is arriving or leaving.
Stand on the same side of the street as the bus stop when you can.
Teach children to wait for your signal before crossing, even after the driver waves them on.
Confirm the correct stop location with the school or driver if there is any doubt.

Teach children what the bus lights mean before they ride alone.

Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is slowing down to stop. Step back from the curb and wait.
Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm mean children are getting on or off. Stay back and do not walk toward the bus.
Do not move toward the bus until the red lights turn off and the stop arm folds in.

Leave for the bus stop early to avoid rushing.
Wait at the bus stop and not across the street.
Stand at least five giant steps (about 10 feet) back from the curb.
Do not play games while you wait.
Do not listen to music or watch videos while you wait.
Younger kids should walk to the bus stop with someone older and more responsible.
Wear bright clothing or use reflective materials to be visible to the bus driver, especially in low light.
Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for conditions like rain or cold to stay safe and comfortable at the bus stop.

Wait until the bus has stopped and the door opens before trying to board the bus.
Use the handrail when boarding the bus.
Do not push or shove when getting on the bus.
Find your seat and sit down quickly without rushing.
Don't touch the emergency doors or handles.
Be aware of the bus's blind spots; make sure the driver can see you before moving.
Keep personal items like backpacks secure to avoid tripping or distracting others while boarding.

Stay seated; use a seat belt if your bus has them.
Keep noise low and avoid sudden movements that could distract the driver.
Stay in your seat.
Don't stick anything out the window.
Keep aisles clear.
Always listen to the bus driver.
Wait for the bus to stop before getting out of your seat.
Be aware of emergency exits and know how to use them in case of an evacuation.
Report any unsafe behavior or conditions on the bus to the driver or a school official immediately.

Use the handrail when exiting the bus.
Do not push or shove when getting off the bus.
Walk in front of the bus, at least 10 feet, wait for the driver to signal you, and quickly check for traffic before crossing.
Never walk behind the bus.
Never walk under a bus.
If you drop something near the bus, tell the driver and wait for their instructions instead of picking it up yourself.

Yellow flashing lights mean slow down and prepare to stop.
Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm mean stop completely.
Stay stopped until the lights turn off, the arm retracts, and children are clear.
Never pass a stopped school bus from either direction unless your state allows it on a divided highway.
Put the phone down and watch for children near the bus, not only at marked crosswalks.
Exercise extra caution in school zones and near bus stops, as children may be present.
If you are unsure whether the bus is loading or unloading, stop and wait.