Summer has ended and here comes another school year. Students are on the move and in Grey-Bruce, a largely rural county, that means the buses are back on the roads and it's time for students and driver's alike to start thinking "School Bus," says OPP Media Relations Officer Steve Starr.
"Over 15,000 students are bused daily within the Bluewater School Board (Grey-Bruce)," says Starr. "Fortunately there are few mishaps but the potential is always there."
Starr reminds motorists of their duty to come to a complete stop for any school bus with overhead lights activated that has stopped on the roadway to pickup or discharge students.
When following, the motorist must stop at least 20 metres back. A motorist who fails to comply with this duty is liable to a minimum fine of $490.
"We continue to get complaints about motorists who pass stopped school buses. Another issue is drivers who slow down but continue to creep forward which causes stress for the bus drivers who are unsure of their intent. It is best to come to a full stop and wait until the stop arm goes in and lights are de-activated before moving forward."
Parents can play a role by reminding their children about some safe practices while riding the buses. Here are a few pointers parents can discuss with their children:
• Be on time for the bus, with belongings organized. This lessens the dangerous period that a bus has to stop on the roadway during morning pickup or when students are dropped off at days end.
• Wait a safe distance away from the road and don't approach the bus until it has come to a complete stop.
• Don't push , shove or run in the vicinity of the bus or other traffic.
• If you can touch the bus you are too close. Remember, if you can't see the driver, the driver can't see you. Your driver can help keep you safe!
• Always watch the traffic in both directions. The lights and stop-arm on the bus don't guarantee they'll stop.
• Be careful walking up or down the steps in the bus. Step on each step and make use of the hand rail.
• On the bus, stay in your seat and face the driver, don't be overly loud and keep the aisles clear.
• Listen to and obey your bus driver, they have a lot of responsibility each day.
