School bus safety tips

Herald-Leader Staff Report

Here are some tips your children can follow to ride the school bus safely.

■ Get to the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.

■ When the bus approaches, stand at least three giant steps (6 feet) away from the curb, and line up away from the street.

■ Before stepping onto the bus, wait until the bus stops, the door opens, and the driver says it's OK.

■ If you have to cross the street in front of the bus, walk on the sidewalk or along the side of the road to a point at least five giant steps (10 feet) ahead of the bus before you cross. Be sure that the bus driver can see you and that you can see the bus driver.

■ Use the handrails to avoid falls. When exiting the bus, be careful that clothing with drawstrings and book bags with straps don't get caught in the handrails or doors.

■ Never walk behind the bus.

■ If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver. Never try to pick it up, because the driver might not be able to see you.

Source: U.S. General Services Administration

Herald-Leader staff report