The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office advises that school buses are very safe, but risks remain when children are getting on and off the bus. Drivers need to slow down and stop, and children must learn to safely navigate to and from the bus. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration highlights that waiting for the bus and boarding or exiting are the most critical times for safety.
According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office release, parents are encouraged to teach children their bus number, driver’s name, and drop-off location, and to have a plan for unexpected situations, including a code word for pickups by someone other than a parent. At the bus stop, children should arrive early, stay visible, and walk 10–12 feet in front of the bus to remain in the driver’s line of sight.
Once on the bus, children should sit promptly, keep aisles clear, and maintain a low volume, especially at railroad crossings. Following these precautions helps ensure safe travel to and from school.
