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Now that class is back in session for the 2025-26 school year, it’s time to review some important safety tips for children who ride the school bus. Ready PA has provided some tips on what to do or not to do when boarding, riding, or getting off the bus.

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Students, caregivers, teachers, administrators, drivers, and transportation personnel all play important roles in keeping children safe when they ride a school bus.

While preparing to ride the bus, children should:

• Get to the bus stop five minutes early so they don’t have to run across the road to catch the bus
• Stay away from traffic while waiting for the bus and line up at least five large steps away from the curb
• Never run after the bus if it has already left the stop
• Always walk at least 10 feet in front of the bus when crossing, so the driver can see them
• Cross with care – wait until the bus has stopped all traffic before stepping onto the road

While on the bus, children should: 

• Never push when getting on or off the bus
• Stay in their seat while the bus is moving and never put their head, arms, or hands out of the window
• Talk quietly so as not to distract the driver
• Be calm and quiet when the bus is crossing railroad tracks, so the driver can listen for a train
• Obey the bus driver’s instructions, so they can make safe decisions
• Never play with the emergency exits
• Make sure that backpacks, band instruments, or sports equipment is not blocking the aisle or emergency exits
• Listen to the driver and follow instructions in case of an emergency

While getting off the bus, children should: 

• Make sure all drawstrings and other loose objects are secure, so they don’t get caught on the handrail or door
• Never cross the street behind the bus
• Never go back for an item left on the bus or dropped outside of it; the driver might not see you and begin moving the bus
• Never speak to strangers at the bus stop or getting into a car with a stranger

For more information, take a look at the tips from Ready PA, a website dedicated to public safety that is operated by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.