Safety First is Golden Rule on School Bus

August 25, 2005

Safety First is Golden Rule on School Bus

Students who ride the bus need to follow some basic safety rules as they head back to school this fall, according to a North Dakota State University safety expert.

Poor lighting conditions, cumbersome school buses and active youngsters are a combination that increases the chances of an accident at bus stops, says George Maher, NDSU Extension Service agricultural safety specialist.

“Delivering everyone safely to school or home is the bus driver’s job, but students can be very helpful by following instructions, being courteous and communicating when necessary,” he adds. “Practicing safety and courtesy always will help make the school bus ride safer and more enjoyable for all.”

Here are some precautions for students to practice to help reduce the risks of riding the bus:

Stay in their seat whenever the bus is moving and when other students are getting on or off.
Do not distract the bus driver with long conversations.
Keep the volume down on radios and cassette players because all riders need to be able to hear instructions from the bus driver.
When transferring to another bus, go to it directly.
Leave the unloading zone immediately after getting off the bus. Don't linger because the driver may not be able to see anyone standing near the bus.
Don't push. The bus driver will give students time to get on or off the bus safely.
Don't throw objects at other students, the bus driver or out the windows.
Be patient with younger and smaller children. Set a good example for them.

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Source: George Maher, (701) 231-8288, gmaher@ndsuext.nodak.edu
Editor: Ellen Crawford, (701) 231-5391, ecrawfor@ndsuext.nodak.edu

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