Top Bus Safety Tips for Students

With the new school year underway, it’s important to talk with your child about best practices when it comes to safety and riding the school bus. Regardless if your child has been on a school bus before or not, it’s useful to review these tips at the start of each new year. By following these simple steps, students will remain safe while getting to and from school.

Sit down with your child after school one day and go over these 5 tips for safe riding from First Safety, a leader in school bus transportation:

1. Stand Back.
Always stand 10 GIANT steps away from the outside of the bus. If you stand too close, the bus driver can’t see you.

2. Wait for OK to Cross.
Wait until the bus driver gives you the OK sign (or a Safety Dog thumbs up!) before crossing the street.

3. Use the Handrail.
Heavy backpacks and wet shoes are no match for the handrail. You should hold on tight when getting on and off the bus to keep from tripping or slipping.

4. Sit the Right Way.
Once you sit down, keep both feet flat on the floor and your back against the seat.

5. Be Still Until the Bus Completely Stops.
It’s fun to be the first, but it’s more important to be patient. Wait for the bus to completely stop before you try and get on board. And always stay in your seat while the bus is moving.

Even if your child is a seasoned bus rider, it’s a good idea to review and reinforce safe school bus behavior at the start of school to encourage a positive experience for everyone.