Back to School is just around the corner and with that comes lots of buses in the neighborhood. As you are gathering your back to school supplies, take a minute and review these 4 bus safety tips with your kids.
- Wait At the Corner, Not On the Corner
A parent can’t always supervise the bus stop. That’s why it’s so important for the kids to understand how easily car or truck accidents can happen. If an accident were to occur and the kids were standing on the curb, they are likely to be injured in the accident. When standing at the bus stop the kids should take three large steps away from the curb. This will keep them safe from passing traffic.
- Look Before You Cross
According to the National Safety Council, riding a bus to school is 10 times safer than walking, but it’s imperative your children are mindful of traffic getting on and off the bus. When crossing the street to load the bus, they should wait until the bus has come to a full and complete stop. Take several steps away from the front of the bus and make eye contact with the driver. This will ensure that the children are far enough out in front of the bus that the driver can see them and that it is safe to cross. Make sure the kids know to always cross in front of the bus, never behind.
- Tell the Driver
Often children will drop things in their rush to get on the bus. They should never stop and bend over in front of the bus to retrieve the item. They should first go to the bus door and let the driver know they’ve dropped something and get permission to pick it up. It would be devastating if the driver did not see the child and the bus began moving.
- Hold On
Climbing up and down the bus stairs can be challenging for the best of us, let alone younger kids with little legs. Holding onto the rail as the children enter and exit the bus can prevent falls and injuries. It’s also important for the kids to sit still while the bus is moving. If they are playing around in the seat while the bus is in motion they are more likely to fall.
So while the kids are gearing up for back to school, take a minute and go over the rules of bus safety with your children. You’ll be glad you did.
