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. 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 aware of moving traffic.
• Leave plenty of time to get to the bus stop.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Stay at a safe distance from the street.
• Stay 10 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.
• Be cautious of clothing or backpacks that can get caught on the bus handrails and doors.
• 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.