As students, parents, and teachers are all gearing up for the start of another school year, it is a good time to remember to keep an eye out for students walking to and from school and students getting on and off school buses.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the school bus is one of the safest vehicles on the road; however, the risk is greatest when children are approaching or leaving a school bus.
Keep in mind these simple rules:
- Yellow flashing lights on a school bus mean slow down because the bus is preparing to stop.
- Red flashing lights mean stop. Students are getting on or off the school bus. Stay stopped until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving.
- Be ready to stop for a school bus as they make frequent stops.
- Watch and stop for children who cross in front of the bus when the bus is stopped.
- Be prepared for school buses stopping at all railroad crossings.
Best wishes for a great school year!