School buses are made to deliver children safely to school. But even still, during the back-to-school season the Children’s Health℠ Emergency Department sees an increase in trauma-related pedestrian, bicycle and even school bus injuries, many of which are preventable by following some simple safety guidelines.

School buses are designed using stringent guidelines set up by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and must meet strict crash-testing criteria. Still, each school district sets regulations for its school buses, so parents should inquire with their child’s school if they have questions about the types of buses used.

The following are some safety tips to share with kids before they ride the bus to school.

10 school bus safety tips

1. Teach your kids that yellow flashing lights indicate a bus is preparing to stop.
2. Wait to get on board until the bus driver says it’s safe.
3. Be respectful of the bus driver, and always follow directions.
4. Remain seated while riding the bus.
5. Keep out of the danger zone. The bus driver can’t see you if you’re standing closer than 10 feet to the bus.
6. If something falls under the bus, tell the bus driver. Never try to pick it up yourself.
7. While waiting for the bus, stay in a safe place away from the street.
8. When you get on or off the bus, look for the bus safety lights and make sure they are flashing.
9. STOP and look before hurrying away from the bus as you exit at the end of the day.
10. When the bus driver says it is safe to cross the street, remember to cross in front of the bus.

Help keep our kids safe by reporting the following to the appropriate school or school district.

• A school bus driver engaged in a dangerous activity such as tailgating, ignoring traffic signs or signals, or texting while driving
• Dangerous conditions at a bus stop
• Buses exhibiting maintenance problems