Safe Kids: School Bus Safety

Austin, TX - Tareka Wheeler of Safe Kids Austin stopped by Good Day to talk about school bus safety. Here are some tips for parents:

Walking to the Bus Stop

• Always walk on the sidewalk to the bus stop, never run. If there is no sidewalk, wakl on the left facing traffic.
• Go to the bus stop about five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. While at the bus stop, wait quitely in a safe place well away from the road. Do not run and play while waiting.

Getting on and off the bus

• Enter the bus in line with younger students in front. Hold the handrail while going up and down the stairs
• When entering the bus, go directly to a seat. Remain seated and face forward during the entire ride.

Exiting the bus

• If you leave something on the bus, never return to the bus to get it. The driver may not see you come back and she may begin moving the bus. Make sure that drawstrings and other loose objects are secure before getting off the bus so that they do not get caught on the handrail or the door.
• Respect the "danger zone" which surrounds all sides of the bus. The "danger zone" is ten feet wide on all sides of the bus. Always remain 10 steps away from the bus to be out of the "danger zone" and where the driver can see you.
• Always cross the street in front of the bus. Never go behind the bus. If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver before you attempt to pick it up, so they will know where you are.