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East Carter Co. R-2 School

Corey Jameson, Transportation Director

 

School Bus Safety

 


Things kids should know about bus safety.

  • The bus driver may not see you if you are closer than 10 feet to the bus. Stay out of the “Danger Zone”.
  • If something falls under the bus, tell the driver. NEVER try to pick it up yourself.
  • While waiting for the bus, stay in a safe place away from the road.
  • Be alert to traffic when you get off the bus. Look left and right before you cross the road.
  • When the drivers says it is safe to cross the road CROSS IN FRONT of the bus.
  • Stay in your seat and sit quietly so the driver is not distracted.

 

Students riding the bus should always:

  • Arrive at the bus stop 5 minutes early.
  • Stand 10 feet away from the edge of the road.
  • Wait until the bus stops, the door opens and then board the bus.
  • Be careful that clothing with drawstrings and book bags with straps and dangling objects do not get caught in the handrail or door when exiting the bus.
  • Check both ways for cars before crossing the road.

 

Things parents should know about bus safety.

  • School buses are the safest form of highway transportation.
  • The most dangerous part of the school bus ride is getting on and off the bus.
  • The loading and unloading area is called the “Danger Zone.” This is the areas on all sides of the bus where children are in the most danger of not being seen by the driver.
  • Young children are most likely to be struck because they:

1.     Hurry to get on and off the bus.

2.    Act before they think and have little experience with traffic.

3.    Assume motorists will see them and will wait for them to cross the road.

4.    Don’t always stay within the driver’s sight.

 

Things parents can do to make the school safer for their child:

  • Go over the basics of bus safety with your child before school starts.
  • Make sure that your child knows their bus number and the name of their bus driver.
  • Be at the bus stop early.
  • Have an alternate plan for days when your children go to a stop other than their normal stop.
  • Notify the school by note or phone call before 2:00 p.m. if your child needs to ride a bus to an alternate location.
  • Talk with your child’s bus driver. See if there are any concerns with your child’s bus behavior that need to be addressed.
  • Be familiar with the school handbook and the bus expectations for good behavior.


 

Have a safe school year!