School buses are the safest way for students to travel, but children also need to do their part to stay alert and aware of their surroundings to prevent injury. We realize we have many new students riding the bus this year and we wanted to share some bus safety information with you.

First Student recommends parents teach their children the following safety rules for getting on and off the bus, and for exercising good behavior while riding.

• Be at the bus stop early.
• Be aware of moving traffic.
• Arrive at your bus stop early.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Stay at a safe distance from the street.
• Stay at least three giant steps away from the outside of the bus while the bus is pulling up.
• Wait for the bus to stop completely before getting on or off.
• Hold the handrail going up and down the stairs.
• Find a seat and sit down as soon as you’re on the bus.
• Be courteous and respectful to your driver. Listen to directions.
• Don’t put your head, arms, papers or anything out the window.
• Don’t pick up anything you drop near the bus.
• Wait to cross the street until the driver lets you know it’s OK.
• Stay away from the bus wheels at all times.
• Respect the bus driver and listen to instructions.