September 08, 2008

Health Tip: Stay Safe on the School Bus

(HealthDay News) -- Children should know how to safely board and leave the school bus, and what to do during the ride to and from school.

The U.S. National Safety Council has these recommendations:

• Wait until the bus stops and the door opens before stepping onto the roadway.
• Use the hand rail when boarding or leaving the bus.
• Board the bus calmly and choose a seat quickly. Take a seat as soon as possible.
• Children should always stay in their seats when the bus is moving.
• There should be no loud talking, yelling or other distractions that may bother the bus driver.
• Keep head, arms and hands inside the bus. Never stick them out the window.
• Keep books, backpacks and other belongings stored on or below the seat, and keep the aisle of the bus clear.
• Once the bus comes to a complete stop, children may stand and exit the bus quickly and safely through the front door.
• If children must cross in front of the bus, they should walk at least 10 feet ahead of the bus along the side of the road, until they can turn around and see the driver. The driver should also be able to see them.
• Children must wait for a signal from the driver before crossing the street.

-- Diana Kohnle

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