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For
twenty-three million students nationwide, the school day begins and ends with a
trip on a school bus. The greatest risk is not riding the bus, but approaching
or leaving the bus.
Before
children go back to school or start school for the first time, it is essential
that adults and children know traffic safety rules.
Drivers
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When
backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, watch out for children
walking or bicycling to school.
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When
driving in neighborhoods with school zones, watch out for young people who
may be thinking about getting to school, but may not be thinking about
getting there safely.
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Slow
down. Watch for children playing and congregating near bus stops.
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Slow
down. Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no
sidewalks in the neighborhood.
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Be
alert. Children arriving late for the bus may dart into the street without
looking for traffic.
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Learn
and obey the school bus laws in your state. Learn the "flashing signal
light system" that school bus drivers use to alert motorists of pending
actions:
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Yellow flashing lights indicate that the bus is preparing to stop to load
or unload children. Motorists should slow down and prepare to stop their
vehicles.
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Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate that the bus has
stopped, and that children are getting on or off. Motorists must stop their
vehicles and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop sign is
withdrawn, and the bus begins moving before they can start driving again.
Children
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Get
to the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
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When
the bus approaches, stand at least three giant steps (6 feet) away from the
curb, and line up away from the street.
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Wait
until the bus stops, the door opens, and the driver says that it's okay
before stepping onto the bus.
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If
you have to cross the street in front of the bus, walk on the sidewalk or
along the side of the street to a point at least five giant steps (10 feet)
ahead of the bus before you cross. Be sure that the bus driver can see you,
and you can see the bus driver.
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Use
the handrails to avoid falls. When exiting the bus, be careful that clothing
with drawstrings, and book bags with straps don't get caught in the
handrails or doors.
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Never
walk behind the bus. Walk at least three giant steps away from the side of
the bus. If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver. Never try
to pick it up because the driver may not be able to see you.
Parents
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