Twelve students were on a school bus in Northwood, Iowa when a truck struck a seven-year-old as she attempted to board. The bus driver had the lights flashing and the stop sign out, but a pickup truck traveling in the opposite direction hit the first grader and then fled the scene without stopping. The truck was located and the driver arrested later that day, and he is now awaiting charges in the child's death.
The tragic death is a reminder of the need for students to take all possible safety precautions in order to avoid school bus accidents. With school just around the corner, now is a good time for a refresher course in bus safety for parents and students.
School Bus Safety Tips
First, parents should make sure they allow enough time for the child to get to the bus stop every day. Children should be reminded that they should never run across streets or chase after a bus that is moving, even if they are late or have missed their bus.
Second, while waiting for the bus, children should stand five to ten giant steps back from the street, and should maintain this distance while the bus is moving. Children should also wait until the bus has completely stopped before they attempt to board. If the child has to cross a street, he should wait for the driver's go ahead to cross. The child should also never cross behind a bus as the driver may not see him.
Third, if a child drops something near the bus, he or she should check with the bus driver before picking it up so that the driver is aware of his or her position. Children should never be near the wheels of the bus.
Once on the bus, students should take a seat and remain seated during the duration of the bus ride. They should not hang out of the window or throw anything out of the bus, and they should be respectful to the bus driver. If the bus driver indicates the students need to be quiet, it is important that they do so, because there are things the driver may need to listen for to ensure their safety.
When exiting the bus, children should make sure that no items are dragging on the floor that can get caught in the door as they exit.
Reminding children of bus safety rules can help them remain safe throughout the school year.
