The school bus is one of the safest ways to travel, but there are risks to keep in mind. Here’s how to help our children stay safe.
Avoiding harm when crossing the road
The most frequent time children have been hurt is crossing the road after getting off the bus, especially in the afternoon. This has happened on rural and urban roads.
Slow down!
- Always slow down to 20km/h when passing a stationary school bus. This is the law.
- Be alert for children walking or running onto the road.
- This low speed gives you time to react and it reduces harm.
Reduce the need for kids to cross
- Wait on the same side of the road as the bus stop when picking up or dropping off children.
- Park your car further away and walk to the bus stop to meet them.
If they have to cross the road
Come across yourself first so you can cross back with them.
If they need to cross alone, teach them these steps:
- After getting off, wait as far away from the edge of the road as you can.
- Wait until the bus has gone.
- Choose a place to cross where you can see clearly up and down the road.
- Use the kerb drill to cross.
The kerb drill is explained here:
Walking safety tips(external link)
What else to teach your children
Waiting for the bus
- Wait at the designated bus stop area, not elsewhere.
- Keep well away from the road edge.
- Avoid playing games where you might end up running onto the road.
Getting on the bus
- Form a single line, with younger children first.
- Make sure the bus has stopped before you try to get on.
- Don't push. Be patient.
- Carry your backpack or school bag so it doesn’t get caught in the door.
Riding on the bus
- Quickly choose a seat and sit down.
- Put your bag on your lap or under your seat.
- Use seatbelts when provided.
- Stay in your seat until the bus has stopped.
- Follow what the bus driver or bus warden tells you to do.
- If you have to stand, put your bag on the floor and hold onto a seat back or handrail.
Getting off the bus
- Get off the bus carefully, without pushing.
- Stand well clear of the bus if it is turning or reversing.
