School Bus Safety Resource Guide
This School Bus Safety Resource Guide provides information on a number of programs and resource materials which can be used to improve school bus safety by targetting a variety of audiences, from school vehicle passengers and their parents, to school vehicle drivers, community groups and the general public.
The information and programs included in this Resource Guide are arranged primarily around the intended audience for the information, although other groups and individuals may be interested in the material as well.
Contents
- Introduction
- Programs for School Vehicle Riders and Caregivers
- Information and Programs for School Bus Safety Professionals
- Information and Programs to Promote Enforcement of School Bus Laws
- Information on Resources Available to Promote School Bus Safety
- Acknowledgements
Introduction
Ontario's school population includes over two million students. Of those, over 800,000 use school buses every day. This includes children who are bused from rural areas and children who participate in special programs, such as French immersion, as well as those who use school buses for field trips.
Research conducted by Transport Canada shows that school bus travel is one of the safest methods of transportation -- and is 16 times safer than travelling in the family car, based on the number of passengers and kilometres travelled. although school buses have an excellent safety record, mishaps can happen, and injuries can result. These can include both children riding on the bus and children who suffer injuries as a result of being hit by their own school bus or by other vehicles.
Improved road safety education and awareness may avert some of these mishaps. This Resource Guide provides information on a number of school bus safety programs. They can be of value to school bus operators, school boards, community groups, parent councils, police and safety organizations. To be as effective as possible, this Guide is divided into different sections based on the intended primary audience, including:
- parents, caregivers and children;
- school bus drivers, school bus service providers and school board officials;
- the enforcement community.
However, it is hoped that those using this Guide will also find other sections worthwhile.
Many school bus service providers and school boards have implemented school bus safety programs for their clients. However, other stakeholders may not be aware of successful programs which have been undertaken elsewhere, or may not have the resources to develop their own programs.
This Guide includes information on a number of programs and initiatives, targeting road users from school children to drivers (including both school bus drivers and motorists) travelling around school buses. Some components may be more useful than others in a given situation. Some can be used as is, with little preparation or modification. Some will require support from local community or parent groups. All are intended to improve and reinforce school bus safety.
This Guide is by no means a complete inventory of available programs or information, but does provide an overview.
The information in this Guide will be updated as new programs and information are developed.
Programs for School Vehicle Riders and Caregivers
First Rider Program: Overview
This overview provides general information on the First Rider Program. More detailed information is available in the First Rider Program: Operations Manual, in the section of this Guide titled "Information for the School Bus Safety Professional".
What ... is the First Rider program?
The First Rider program is an education and awareness program. It is designed to promote school bus safety to young children and their parents.
It familiarizes young children who are beginning school with school buses and helps them overcome any fears they may have about riding on the "big yellow bus". It also provides information to children and their parents on school bus safety procedures, including how to get on and off the bus safely. The program is planned as a fun learning experience for the participants.
Who ... is it for?
The First Rider program is targeted at young children who will be entering the school system in September. It is primarily intended for those children who will be using school buses to go to and from school on a regular basis. It also provides information to parents on school bus safety procedures.
How ... does it work?
The First Rider program can be sponsored by local school boards, school bus operators, police, volunteers, etc. The program is approximately 45 minutes in length and usually includes:
- a safety video,
- a ride on a school bus,
- a review of school bus safety procedures,
- presentations (can include information from school bus driver, i.e. circle check, police, etc.,) and
- related activities such as looking at a stationary bus.
Depending on the number of children, several First Rider programs can be scheduled for the same day, or over several days, and at varying locations, usually prior to the beginning of the school year.
Information on the program is provided by local school boards to the prospective parents at kindergarten registration or orientation and is also distributed to the local media prior to the event. The event takes place in a school parking lot or other area away from traffic, with adjacent facilities for watching the video and participating in the activities. Refreshments (often donated by local commercial sponsors) may also be available as part of the program.
The event usually begins with registration. Children watch a video (i.e. Winnie the Pooh's Great School Bus Adventure). Presentations can also be scheduled at this time. Afterwards, children proceed to the bus. The rules learned in the video are reviewed, and then children board the bus with their parents.
Children are driven to a designated area (which may be the same or a different school). Children then get off the bus (bus rules are reviewed again). Rules for loading and walking in front of the bus are reviewed. Presentations and refreshments may also be scheduled for this time. Children may receive a certificate for completing the program. Parents may also receive additional information on school board transportation policies and safety procedures, such as ensuring that children are dropped off and picked up on time and that young children are supervised while waiting at the bus stop.
The program is normally provided free to participants.
When ... does it happen?
The program is usually scheduled for a time in late August or early in September in order to capture the child population that will be beginning school in September. It can be scheduled for any time that is convenient for participants and for those delivering the program.
Where ... is it?
The program itself takes place on school property or some other secure location with associated facilities nearby.
The program has been successful in a number of communities, including the Ottawa area and Thunder Bay. Other communities have successfully implemented similar education and awareness programs in their jurisdictions.
Why?
School bus transportation is extremely safe. To maintain this safety record, children and their parents must be familiar with school bus safety rules such as how to get on and off the bus safely and how to behave on the bus. The First Rider program is an opportunity for school boards and school bus operators to introduce school bus safety rules to children, and for parents to become familiar with school bus procedures.
It also allows parents and children to ask questions about school bus safety and related issues.
How ... do I get more information about the First Rider program?
Contact the Ministry of Transportation's Regional Planner for your area. This person will be able to provide additional information and suggestions for implementing a First Rider program.
| John Warkentin | Southwest Region | (519) 873-4420 |
| Paul Allore | Eastern Region | (613) 545-4608 |
| Jeff Griffith | Northern Region | (705) 497-5453 |
| Tom Marinis | Northwest Region | (807) 473-2198 |
| Central Region | 416-235-5486 |
School Bus Safety Rules
The following information is useful for school bus riders and their parents.
Rules for getting on the bus safely:
- Be at the bus stop on time. Never run to or from the bus.
- Wait at the designated stop in a safe place well back from the side of the road.
- Remember the danger zone around the bus. The danger zone is anywhere close enough to the bus to touch it. The bus driver cannot see you when you are in the danger zone.
- If you cross the street to get on the bus: when the bus comes, wait until it has come to a complete stop. The bus driver will make sure all the traffic stops. The stop arm will be out and the red lights will be flashing. Watch the driver. When the driver knows it is safe, he or she will signal you to cross, but watch for traffic yourself. Walk, don't run.
- Hold the hand rail as you get on the bus. Don't push or shove.
Rules for Safe School Bus Riding:
- Take your seat promptly and sit properly, facing forward at all times.
- Hold bags and parcels in your lap. Do not stick your feet into the aisle: someone might trip
- Keep your head and arms-everything-inside the bus. Don't throw anything out the windows or around in the bus.
- Talk quietly. The driver must concentrate to drive the bus safely.
- Save snacks for snack time at school or till you get home. They may spill or you may choke if the bus goes over a big bump.
- No fighting, shouting or playing in or around the bus.
- Always follow the bus driver's instructions.
Rules for leaving the bus safely:
- When you leave the bus, hold the handrail and take two large steps away from the bus.
- To cross the street in front of the bus, walk ahead at least ten giant steps (three metres). Cross only when the driver gives a signal. Cross the street in single file.
- If you drop something near the bus, don't pick it up. Tell the driver or other adult.
- If everyone is getting off the bus, the people at the front leave first. Do not push.
- Be familiar with the rules for emergencies.
Traffic Signs Related to Schools and School Bus Safety
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This sign warns that you are coming to a school zone. Slow down, drive with extra caution, and watch for children. |
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The speed limit in this zone is lower during school hours. Observe the reduced speed limit shown when the yellow lights are flashing. |
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This sign warns of a school crossing. Watch for children and follow the directions of the crossing guard or school safety patroller. |
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This sign warns that you are coming to a school bus stop of which you may not have a clear view. Slow down, drive with extra caution, watch for children and for school bus with flashing signal lights. |
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This sign is installed on multi-lane highways with no centre median divider. It informs drivers approaching from both directions that they must stop for a school bus when its signal lights are flashing. If you don't stop for a school bus, you can be fined $400 to $2000 and get six demerit points for a first offence. If you break the rule a second time, the pen alty is a fine of $1000 to $4000 and six demerit points. You could also go to jail for up to six months. |
School Bus Safety: Statistics
The following statistical background information is useful for professionals involved in the development and delivery of school bus safety programs.
Ontario's school population includes over two million students who attend elementary and secondary schools. Of those, over 800,000 regularly use school vehicles to travel to and from school. Other students use school buses for field trips, special outings and for special travel needs. Research conducted by Transport Canada shows that school bus travel is one of the safest methods of transportation — and is 16 times safer than travelling in the family car per passenger/kilometre of travel.
Factors Related to School Bus Collisions
table 1
| SCHOOL YEAR | 1990/1991 | 1991/1992 | 1992/1993 | 1993/1994 | 1994/1995 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| number of pupils transported daily (school year) | 789,963 | 794,941 | 796,347 | 798,926 | 816,273 |
| total number of collisions involving school vehicles | 1,315 | 1,194 | 1,174 | 1,293 | 1,018 |
| per cent of school vehicles in reportable collisions | 6.6% | 6.0% | 6.0% | 6.9% | 5.6% |
| per cent of all vehicles in reportable collisions | 6.4% | 6.7% | 6.7% | 6.6% | 6.3% |
| number of pupils killed | 3 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 1 |
| number of pupils injured | 255 | 147 | 160 | 219 | 174 |
| ACTION | |||||
| killed outside the bus | 3 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| injured outside the bus | 13 | 19 | 13 | 9 | 7 |
| killed within school vehicle | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 |
| injured within school vehicle | 242 | 128 | 147 | 210 | 167 |
Pupils Killed and Injured in Collisions
As table 1 indicates, the majority of school vehicle-related fatalities (62%) occur outside the school vehicle. When a school vehicle is involved in a collision, the outcome for the pupils travelling in it is very rarely death. The majority of reported injuries due to collisions are minor, involving cuts and bruises. Historically, six to eight pupils a year require a hospital stay due to injuries sustained within the school bus.
Pupil deaths outside the school vehicle occur either when a motorist does not stop for a school vehicle that is taking on or discharging passengers, or when the pupil is hit by the school vehicle.
In 1995, there were 2,185,926 children in Ontario between the ages of 5 and 19. In order to put school vehicle safety in perspective, some other transportation-related injuries which affect this age group are identified in table 2. During the 1994/5 school year (200 days) one child was killed and 174 were injured in school vehicle crashes, and it is estimated that school pupils take well over 163 million trips to and from school.
table 2
| Deaths | per 10,000 population | Injuries | per 10,000 population | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle Passengers | 61 | .28 | 8634 | 39.5 |
| Pedestrians | 20 | .09 | 1696 | 7.8 |
| Cyclists | 9 | .04 | 1324 | 6.06 |
The low injury and fatality rate among school vehicle passengers is likely due to the distinctive highly visible, yellow and black colour of school vehicles, the special training and licensing of school vehicle drivers, and the emphasis placed on safety by the operators.
School Bus Safety Factors
Seat Belts:
Transport Canada sets safety standards for school vehicles at time of manufacture. These standards include high seat backs with energy absorbing padding, seats that are placed close together, and strong seat anchorages. In 1984, Transport Canada conducted research on the use of seat belts on school buses in frontal collisions using the current configuration. It was found that adding seat belts to this system did not increase safety but did increase the potential for more severe head and neck injuries. Transport Canada also tested several other seating configurations, but found no significant safety improvements that did not also involve other safety trade-offs. Given the extremely low number of fatalities involving school bus passengers inside the bus, the addition of seat belts does not constitute a safety advantage.
Illegal Passing of School Buses:
Few studies into the problem of the illegal passing of school buses have been conducted. One Florida study recorded occurrences over one typical school day, and extrapolated the results. An unpublished 1987 Ontario study counted illegal passes over three weeks in various parts of the province. It found they occurred in two per cent of stops, were higher in approaching traffic, in some metropolitan areas and on three and four lane highways. Some municipalities have instituted awareness and enforcement programs to address illegal passing of school buses, and the provincial government has recently raised the fines.
School Bus Driver Action:
School bus drivers involved in fatal or injury crashes are more likely than drivers in similar crashes to be driving properly (57% compared to 47%). The major causes of collision were failure to yield (29% of improper driving actions), following too close (16%) speeding (11 %) and losing control (11 %).
Collision location:
The most common school vehicle injury-producing crash location was "intersection" (31 %), "non-intersection" (27%) and "at or near driveway" (17%).
Other Factors:
The Canadian Hospital Injury Reporting and Prevention Program (CHIRPP) indicates that 18% of injuries occur when the passenger is entering or exiting the bus. Student activity on the bus remains a significant factor in injuries. CHIRPP reports that 24% of injuries result from "horseplay or inappropriate activity" or "fighting". Fifteen per cent of injuries reported by CHIRPP result from the school bus being involved in a motor vehicle collision.
Who Shares Responsibility for School Bus Safety?
Because of the interrelated nature of student transportation, various organizations and levels of government are responsible for different areas of school vehicle transportation.
Transport Canada:
The federal government (Transport Canada) has the responsibility for establishing new vehicle standards. Transport Canada sets vehicle safety standards for all new vehicles which are manufactured in, or imported into Canada.
Transport Canada has set 37 safety standards which school vehicles must meet. These standards include such features as strengthened steel beams which run the entire length of the bus, a steel "cage" around the gas tank, the distinctive black and yellow colour, and the required "stop arm" and flashing lights.
Transport Canada conducts research to identify school bus safety issues. The research is designed to determine the improvements which can be made to existing safety standards, and what additional measures can be adopted to further improve school vehicle safety. Transport Canada reviews existing safety standards as required.
In addition, Transport Canada also collects and monitors Canada-wide annual collision statistics.
Ministry of Transportation (Ontario):
Once the vehicle is in operation, the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is responsible for establishing rules and regulations pertaining to vehicles (such as school vehicles), driver qualifications and licensing, and vehicle inspections through the Highway Traffic Act. MTO also regulates the deployment of safety equipment (such as stop arms and flashing lights) unique to school buses.
Ministry of Education and Training, Ontario:
The Ministry of Education and Training provides a grant to school boards for pupil transportation. The decision regarding how transportation is provided rests with the school board.
Canadian Standards Association (CSA):
Ontario prescribes by regulation, that all new school buses offered for sale or sold in Ontario must conform to the CSA standard for school buses: Canadian Standards Association Standard D250 M 1985.
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation recently participated in the review and updating of this standard and will be incorporating the changes when the standard is published.
The federal government has responsibility for establishing new vehicle standards, and the provinces are responsible for in-use standards. The Canadian Standards Association D250 standard is adopted by Transport Canada in Regulations under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act as the standard which must be met.
School Boards:
In Ontario, school boards are not required to provide transportation services. The Education Act (RSO 1990, Chapter e.2, section 190) states that school boards "may" provide transportation for pupils. Transportation, therefore, is a privilege, not a right.
It is the responsibility of each individual school board to develop and maintain a set of transportation policies, including safety provisions.
School boards determine and contract the transportation services (such as school buses, wheelchair vehicles, etc.) that will be provided. Some school boards choose to own and operate school vehicles themselves.
School Principals:
For safety and disciplinary purposes, a school bus is regarded as an extension of the classroom. If a child misbehaves on a school bus, the principal has the authority to discipline the child. Ultimately, a child's transportation privileges can be suspended.
School Board Transportation Officials:
These officials administer and monitor transportation policies as authorized by the school board. They determine the mode of transportation, establish school bus routes and negotiate contracts with service providers. They are the liaison between the school board, parents, government, school bus operators and drivers, police, local community groups and the public.
School Bus Operators:
School bus operators have been contracted by school boards to provide transportation services. Drivers and vehicles must meet "all requirements of the Highway Traffic Act, the Public Vehicles Act and the regulations thereunder".
School Bus Drivers:
School bus drivers are responsible for the safe daily operation of the school bus and passenger safety. They are responsible for conducting a thorough pre-trip inspection (both inside and out) of the bus
Parents:
Parents should ensure that their children are familiar with school bus safety rules and school board transportation policies, even if their children do not use a school bus regularly. Parents whose children are bused regularly should ensure that the child is at the bus stop on time. Parents should try to meet their children at the bus stop, or form a pool of volunteers to meet the children. Always meet the child on the same side of the street where the child leaves the school bus.
Parents must be aware that they are responsible for their children until they step on the bus and immediately after they exit the bus.
Students:
All students should be familiar with school bus safety rules, even if they do not ride on a school bus every day. They should also be familiar with the rules for emergencies.
Motorists:
Motorists are required to obey all traffic laws regarding school buses, in particular the School Bus Stopping Law. Vehicles in both directions must stop when a school bus has stopped and its overhead lights are flashing and the Stop Arm is extended. This law is designed to protect children who may be getting on or off the bus. Motorists should remember that school vehicles are not just found in rural areas. Motorists should also be aware that school buses are required by law to stop at all railway crossings.
Police:
Police enforce the provisions of the Highway Traffic Act and the relevant regulations. Other police activities include community outreach programs in which officers provide safety information and education to school children, including school vehicle safety; and special enforcement programs, such as the "Bus Watch" program which targets motorists who pass school vehicles illegally. Other programs may include "school bus patrollers" and emergency evacuation procedures. Contact the local police department for more information.
Community Groups / interested parties:
Community groups, injury prevention advocates and other organizations also have a role to play in improving and maintaining school vehicle safety by raising awareness of school vehicle safety issues for the general public or their particular client group. Many participate as co-sponsors of safety programs such as the First Rider program or the Bus Watch program. Individuals can participate as field trip chaperones, and support school vehicle safety by encouraging passengers to ride safely.
Information for parents Concerned about School Bus Safety
In Ontario, over 800,000 students use school vehicles every day to get to and from school. Other students regularly use school vehicles for special programs, field trips and special travel needs. School vehicle travel is extremely safe. Parents can help to ensure that it remains safe by stressing school bus safety with their children. The following information may be of interest.
What makes school vehicles safe?
- All buses built since 1980 meet safety standards developed by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA D-250) and set by Transport Canada
- the size and bright yellow colour make school buses very visible
- the school bus is designed to protect passengers from impact. The floor is raised, the window glass is shatter-proof, and there are strengthened reinforcements along the sides of the bus
- the flashing lights and stop arm that warn motorists that they must stop for a stopped school bus
- the high pen alty (six demerit points and a substantial fine) for motorists who fail to stop for a school bus
- school bus drivers receive special training and licensing, rigorous examinations and must maintain a good driving record.
What is Ontario's School Bus Stopping Law?
Motorists in both directions meeting a stopped school bus with its overhead red signal lights flashing and stop arm extended must stop. The law applies everywhere, regardless of the posted speed limit - on highways, country roads, city, town or village streets. Only on highways separated by a median strip is oncoming traffic not required to stop.
Why aren't seat belts required on school vehicles?
Some parents are surprised to find that while seat belt use is mandatory in passenger vehicles, their children travel unrestrained in a school bus.
School buses are designed to protect passengers through "compartmentalization". This means that school buses have:
- seats with high backs
- the seats positioned close together to form compartments
- seats filled with energy-absorbing material
- strong seat anchorages
Parents also need to be aware of additional information about seat belts:
- to be effective, seat belts must be worn correctly (snug and low on the hips) for full protection. Seat belts which are not correctly worn may cause injuries.
- because school vehicles carry passengers from the very young to high school students, seat belt fit must be readjusted and use monitored to ensure safety.
- because of increased use, seat belts on school buses are subject to more wear and tear, and their condition must be monitored.
- studies using dummies have shown that adding seat belts to the current school bus seating arrangement can actually increase the chance of head and neck injuries in restrained passengers.
How can school vehicle safety be improved?
Most injuries to school vehicle passengers occur outside the school bus, as students are entering or leaving the bus, or crossing the street. Many of these mishaps can be prevented through education. School vehicle safety can be improved by teaching children the correct procedures and proper behaviour around school buses. Children should learn:
- to be at the school bus stop on time
- to wait in a safe place well back from the side of the road
- to know the danger zones around the bus where the driver cannot see them
- to enter the bus in single file, holding onto the handrail
- to find a seat right away, and stay seated, facing forward at all times
- to make sure that there is nothing in the aisle
- to do what the bus driver says
- it is unsafe to distract the driver
- throwing things, rowdy behaviour and eating or drinking are not allowed
- to keep heads and arms inside the bus
Children leaving the bus must be careful:
- if they can touch the bus, they are too close
- they should stay away from the side of the road, not play on snowbanks
- if children drop something near the bus, they must learn to leave it and inform an adult; they should never pick it up because they may be out of sight of the driver
If children must cross the street:
- children must walk at least ten big steps in front of the bus along the side of the road, and look at the driver before crossing
- children should look for a signal from the driver before walking across the street
- children should look all ways before crossing the roadway
- parents should meet children on the side of the street where the bus stops
For more information contact your local school bus operator, local school board or police.
Information and Programs for School Bus Safety Professionals
First Rider Program: Operations Manual
The following information is intended for use by school boards, school bus operators, parent councils and other volunteer organizations working together to develop a "First Rider" program locally.
Introduction
The First Rider program (also known as "orientation ride", "First Time Rider", "The Journey Begins", etc.) is an education and awareness program designed to familiarize young children and their parents with school buses and school bus safety.
although school bus travel is extremely safe, informing children about safety rules, and parents about safety procedures, will help to promote school bus safety. It also allows parents and children to ask questions about school bus safety and related issues.
The program is intended as a fun learning experience. While open to all children, the program is designed for young children who use school buses to and from school on a regular basis. The information and presentation format lends itself to all children up to the age of eight. The program is approximately 45 minutes in length and usually consists of a safety video, a review of school vehicle safety procedures and a ride on a school bus. It can be adapted for use in a number of different ways, depending on who is organizing the event, the level of participation, timing and resources available. It can be scheduled around the beginning of the school year or as part of a "kindergarten orientation" in June.
To be successful, the program must be well planned and organized. The support of various stakeholders, including school bus operators, drivers, the school board and trustees and local sponsors is very helpful. The program must be publicized.
First Rider programs have been conducted successfully in a number of Ontario communities, including Ottawa-Carleton, Thunder Bay, York Region, etc.
Following is a step-by-step program guide to the components of a "First Rider" program.
Timing
Organization of a First Rider Program should begin about six months prior to the date chosen for the event. The best times for the First Rider event to take place are either around the beginning of the school year, or in June prior to the end of school. although late August or September may be preferred because the children taking part in the program are more likely to remember the safety rules they will learn, this is also a busy time for both children and parents. Many schools and school boards have a "kindergarten orientation / registration day" in June, and this may also be a good time to schedule the event, preferably with a follow-up in August or September.
Registration information for the First Rider program should be scheduled either to coincide with kindergarten registration or can be done by mail or by phone.
Depending on the location, level of participation, expected and size of catchment group, several different sessions to accommodate the number of eligible students may be scheduled. Publicity is essential to reach all potential participants and inform the public about the program. A school is an ideal site for the program because of the availability of all required facilities (auditorium, washrooms, bus loading areas, etc.) In order to accommodate families from different catchment areas, it may be beneficial to use two schools, and have the buses travel from one school to the other, making sure that the route is a safe one.
Numbers of participants
Experience in Thunder Bay, where the program, jointly sponsored by the Boards of Education, the school bus operators and a local road safety coalition, has been running for three years, shows that approximately 20 per cent of eligible students and their parents participate. The majority of these students are registered in junior kindergarten.
Program components
The First Rider program can take a number of forms, depending on the organization that is co-ordinating the program. Some options to consider:
- a video targeted at kindergarten level students
- safety rules for school bus riding
- participation by students in safe boarding and disembarking demonstrations
- a ride on a school bus
- question and answer sessions involving school bus driver, children and parents outlining bus safety features (using stationary bus), procedures
- information handouts for parents, colouring or activity materials for students
Additional components of the program include an appropriate venue, publicity, optional refreshments.
Make sure that you have enough volunteers to assume responsibility for different areas, co-ordinating a successful First Rider Program is too much for one person to handle alone! The success of the program relies on the co-operation of different organizations: school boards, school vehicle transportation officials, school bus operators, etc. If organizing the program for the first time, launch it as a pilot project, perhaps using the kindergarten registrants in one school to start.
Operations: Planning: Step One
STEP ONE: Who, What, Where
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Make a contact list of the people and organizations who can co-sponsor and/or contribute to the First Rider Program. The following people and organizations should be included:
- school bus companies
the participation of both the company and school bus drivers is critical. Consider canvassing all operators who service a particular area. - school boards
consider both public and separate school boards - school officials
trustees, transportation officials, principals, teachers - community safety groups, parent councils, police, Ministry of Transportation regional planners (Road Safety Marketing Office), corporate sponsors
- school bus companies
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Invite representatives from all school bus operators and school systems, parent groups, police, etc., to an initial planning meeting to determine the following details:
- consensus for program and format with commitment of participation by key groups
- determine appropriate date and venue for delivery of program
- establish a planning committee. Determine responsibility and assign teams for various program planning components:
- site organization: location and facility availability (will the building / washrooms / a/v material be available). Assign a site co-ordinator, as well as a site captain who will oversee events on the day of the program
- bus and driver availability and scheduling
- organization of volunteers and volunteer organizations
- publicity: flyers, media releases, registration forms, invitations to parents
- registration and pre-registration handling
- refreshments: responsible for canvassing local companies to donate soft drinks, cookies, donuts, coffee, etc.
- information co-ordinator: locate appropriate video and support material, colouring / activity sheets, information for parents, or arrange for production and/or photocopying ensure no copyright infringement exists),
- set up and clean up crews (may be volunteers)
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Decide how the program will be organized. This will be dependent on the number of people expected and the availability of volunteers. Options include:
- the program starts at a set time for all people who have registered. The program begins at a set station, and participants follow through the stations in order
- as a variation, once a set number of people have arrived, the program begins at the first station. A second group begins 15 minutes or half an hour later.
- a less favourable alternative which should only be considered when there are scheduling difficulties with other options is for participants to start at any one of several stations at the scheduled start time. For instance, one group may begin at the stationary bus, another group at the video, another group at the information / resource centre
- avoid having participants begin the program with either the bus ride component or the refreshment station
- stagger start times. People pre-register for one of several start times, an hour apart
- ensure that contingency plans for rain or inclement weather are in place
- do not have more than 20 students per station per time slot as this will limit the effectiveness of the program
- expect parents, siblings and walk-ins
- have a second bus available in case there are more participants than expected
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Try to accommodate unexpected participants. although having "pre-registration" will help to provide information on the numbers of participants to expect, determine how you can accommodate anyone else who shows up. The First Rider program provides the opportunity for positive public relations as well as for education. Unexpected participants can be expected since providing information to the local media is part of the plan, participants from outside the catchment group, newcomers to the area and those who were unable to commit to participating should be expected. If there are enough volunteers available, it may be possible to hold "staggered" events which begin every fifteen minutes.
Operations: Planning: Step Two
STEP TWO: Program Development/Communication
- Hold regular meetings to ensure that all components are on track.
- Determine how information on the program will be made available to the eligible parents and students.
Some options:
- a flyer and registration form can be sent home to parents of school children (draft letter attached).
- Kindergarten registrants can be provided with a registration card for the program when they register for kindergarten. Check with the schools or school board to determine when Kindergarten registration takes place: in many communities this takes place in the spring for the following fall.
- a letter can be sent to the parents of all kindergarten registrants about a month prior to the running of the program. For reasons of confidentiality, this can be done by the school or school board, should authorities be unwilling to release the names and addresses of students.
NOTE: all school-based communication should take place before the end of school in June
Information on the program can also be provided to:
- area nursery schools and day care centres who are part of the catchment group for the program.
- local media. (Information on contacting the media is included separately under "publicity".)
- It may be worthwhile to provide information on the program in one or more languages. Consider providing information on the First Rider Program to key members of ethnic communities.
- Determine the approximate number of students who will be participating in the event. This will depend on the number of students registering for kindergarten (junior and senior, if appropriate) in the catchment area, how information on the program is being distributed, whether the program has been run before, and therefore has built up credibility, the level of busing in the catchment area, etc.
- Ensure that support materials are available and printed for distribution to participants.
Planning the Program
The First Rider Program is designed to familiarize kindergarten age children and their parents with safe school bus procedures. The aim should be to alleviate first day jitters (for children and parents!), to introduce children and parents to school bus safety rules, and to familiarize parents with safety routines.
The program should strive to be both educational and at the same time fun for parents and children. Remember that some of the children participating may only be three years old, and siblings may also be along.
To accomplish this, planning should take into account:
- the safe movement of children and parents at the site chosen for the event
- having a variety of information and activities available
- ensuring that the program participants are comfortable
- ensuring that the participants have the opportunity to learn and have a positive school bus experience
- conducting a short evaluation survey to determine areas for future improvements to the program
| For the day of the event, make sure you have: |
|---|
Optional:
|
More info and suggestions:
- if the number of participants is known, it may be possible to supply participants with small bags with activity sheets, information for parents, and possibly coupons for local retailers
- refreshments can include soft drinks, cookies, donuts, popcorn (be aware of allergy requirements) Consider need for ice, coolers, napkins, bags for popcorn, and garbage cans with bags (ensure pick up available).
- cellular phones if co-ordinating two or more sites
- card identifying "stations" i.e. movie, stationary bus, bus ride, for participants to check off. An alternative is a sticker that can be worn on a hat or t-shirt. To identify the "first rider", the child's name can be put on the card.
- consider "ask me" buttons for the volunteers to encourage questions
- consider having hats or t-shirts for the volunteers. These can help to identify volunteers on the day of the event, and can also be a "thank you" to the volunteers who put in a great deal of effort to ensure the event's success. Consider canvassing local businesses for their willingness to sponsor the purchase and printing.
Publicizing the program
- information on the First Rider Program can be sent home with the elementary school newsletter in June. Information should be made available at the kindergarten registration, and a mail-in or phone-in registration should be provided.
- flyers should be distributed to area day care centres and nursery schools.
- local school boards, school bus operator(s) and parent council may have additional ways of reaching the target population.
local media:
- about a month to two weeks prior to the program taking place, a news release should be prepared (draft attached) for local media.
- newspapers, local radio stations and local television stations should be contacted one to two weeks prior to the event to follow up.
- the school board(s) and school bus operator(s) should receive a copy of the news release and any additional information material.
- a list of media contacts should be maintained.
- one or two people should be designated as "media contacts". Media discussions can broaden the safety aspect by reminding all drivers of the rules applying to school buses.
- contact local community and ethnic newspapers as well. Information in newspapers on the program may either include a mail-in registration form or telephone contact for registration.
- invite the media to come to the event.
- consider issuing a news release after the event in order to make the media aware of the number of participants and some of the information they learned. A quote from a parent and student will help to add interest. Note plans for holding the program next year.
Operations: Planning: Step Three
STEP THREE: Final Details
- ensure that you have sufficient volunteers so the event will run smoothly and safely. Make sure that the volunteers selected are appropriate for dealing with small children. If necessary, the local police may be able to offer advice. Have one volunteer available as a "runner" between stations to help with supplies, certificates and to ensure the program is running smoothly and on time.
- develop a detailed schedule of events and program. Confirm how the program will be organized: whether you will rotate participants through the stations in order or if you will have staggered start times. This may depend on the number of participants expected and the availability of volunteers and other participants. Another alternative would be to assign participants to a particular station, and have them rotate upon completion. This may be somewhat harder to co-ordinate, but the entire program can be completed within a shorter period of time.
- ensure the designated site captain is in charge
- confirm that publicity has reached its targets
- confirm availability of facilities, including buses, site, a/v material, tables, etc.
- confirm refreshments, if appropriate (donated by local commercial establishments)
- develop required forms and have them printed or photocopied: local commercial establishments may donate their services
Forms include:
- registration form
- a "certificate" for participants: school bus safety rules can be printed on the reverse
- optional: a card or sticker that can be carried or worn by participants which has space for stations to be checked off. This can double as a name tag
- evaluation form: sample questions are attached
Site Planning
- visit the site before the date of the event and plan locations of stations to ensure a safe environment for all participants
- make sure there are sufficient parking spaces for buses and parents' vehicles. Make sure there is sufficient space around the bus(es) to allow for crowds
- ensure availability of all facilities (a/v equipment, washrooms, tables, garbage cans, buses, etc.)
- ensure that bus drivers who will be doing the bus ride are familiar with the area and have planned out an appropriate route (bus ride should be about 10 minutes in duration)
On the day of the event
- arrive early and set up stations. Use safety cones or caution tape
- set up chairs and tables for stations and mats and chairs for video
- make sure that you have assigned a "clean up crew" to remove safety cones, store tables, replace a/v equipment, assume responsibility for leftover information material, video, and refreshments, remove or dispose of garbage and secure building after the completion of the event.
Parking attendants
Since many of the participants will be arriving by car and may not be familiar with the layout of the school parking lot, assign one volunteer the task of directing traffic. alternatively, assign a designated parking area well-removed from the bus area and activity area.
Registration Form
A registration form, distributed through schools, area daycare centres and nursery schools and through the local school boards, will provide some preliminary data on the numbers and ages of participants to expect. Consider asking local schools to include a registration form with the last school newsletter in June. One volunteer should be assigned to track pre-registered children. On the day of the event, the names of pre-registered participants can be checked off, speeding up registration and the issuing of certificates.
Stations
- Registration table
- Bus Ride Station
- Video / Movie Station
- Stationary Bus Station
- Information Station / Resource Centre Station
- Refreshment Station
Registration table
- two volunteers (or more)
- welcome participants (children and parents) to the First Rider Program.
- issue name tag. Ask parents for the correct spelling of their child's first name. Use only first names.
- Pre-registered participants will receive their card or sticker with the stations identified. At each station, a volunteer will check off the appropriate box.
- hand out cards to First Riders and their families. Having numbered cards or stickers ensures that refreshments can be distributed fairly.
- direct participants to the first station, i.e. movie.
Video / Movie Station
- two volunteers, including one person to introduce the video, welcome participants, etc.
- television set & VCR, or other a/v equipment
- optional: mats for children to sit on and chairs for parents
- at the end, a volunteer should review some of the safety rules learned in the movie
There are a number of appropriate school bus videos which outline school bus safety rules. Make sure that the video being used is age-appropriate. A listing of available resources is provided in the "Resources" section of this guide. A recommended video is "Pooh's Great School Bus Adventure", which is 14 minutes long.
If possible, the video should be shown in a classroom instead of the auditorium to reduce the level of distractions. At the end of the video, cards or stickers are stamped and participants are directed to the next station.
Learning Objectives:
A movie is an entertaining way to introduce school bus safety rules in a nonthreatening, entertaining environment
Stationary Bus Station
- 1 volunteer
- stationary bus and driver to answer questions
Children and parents are given the opportunity to board a stationary bus and to ask questions of the driver.
This is an opportunity to show and discuss the "danger zones" around the bus. The danger zones can be marked off with red tape or police "caution tape".
In order to prompt interest, the driver should be prepared to talk about elements of school bus driving, including:
- danger zones
- school bus driver qualifications
- mandatory circle check (trip inspection)
- purpose of mirrors
- school bus safety features: reinforced areas, emergency door, warning lights
- demonstrate flashing lights
- school bus safety rules
- school bus procedures: tell parents to make sure they and their children are at the bus stop on time (or a few minutes early). Encourage parents to share responsibility for meeting the bus. Ensure that children have been to the bathroom before leaving home. Advise bus driver if child suffers from motion sickness or is subject to medical conditions such as allergies.
Ask questions of the children and parents as well. Reinforce the idea that the school day begins when the children board the bus.
Parents should also be reminded that children should follow the directions of the bus driver when around the bus.
Learning Objectives:
The stationary bus provides an opportunity for children to become familiar with the bus and the danger zones around the bus, and to assimilate this information. It also encourages parents (and children to ask questions)
Bus Ride Station
This is the most important part of the First Rider program.
- 2 volunteers
- school bus & school bus driver
- safety cones
The volunteers are responsible for assembling participants. Families can either ride the bus together, or "first time riders" can line up in single file and ride at the front, and parents and siblings can ride in the back of the bus. Because of the age and possible anxiety of the participants, there should be some flexibility around this.
Volunteers review school bus boarding rules and then passengers get on the bus. Once the passengers are seated on the bus, the volunteer will review the rules for riding the bus. One volunteer will ride with the bus and is available to answer questions (so that the driver is not distracted). However to ensure that school bus safety rules are reinforced, this person should also be sitting down and facing forward when the bus is in motion. The bus should follow a designated route, and either proceed to another school or return to the originating destination. The bus ride should take about ten minutes. At the conclusion of the ride, the volunteer and the bus driver can respond to questions.
As passengers leave the bus, the rules for leaving the bus should be followed: hold the hand rail, walk to the curb. Children should be directed to walk at least ten big steps in front of the bus, wait for the driver's signal, and then walk across in front of the bus. The volunteer and / or driver should let them know how well they rode the bus. The volunteer should stamp card or sticker as participants leave the bus. The volunteer will then escort participants ten steps in front of the bus, explain the need to make eye contact with the bus driver and wait until the driver indicates that it is safe to cross.
Learning Objectives:
Children and parents become familiar with the school bus and are provided with the safety rules for safe school bus riding.
Information Station / Resource Centre Station
- 2 volunteers: one bus driver or transportation official to respond to questions
- table
- safety cones to encourage orderly pass through
- educational material for parents and children. Hand out material can be in small bags (ensures it will get taken home) or individually available upon request. Volunteer stamps card or sticker
- certificates, if being presented to participants, can be distributed here. A balloon or colouring book can be included as an additional token
- thank parents for participating and recognizing the importance of safety.
Learning Objectives:
Parents and children can acquire additional information about school bus safety for further review.
Refreshment station
- 3 volunteers
- drinks, cups
- cookies, crackers, donuts, etc.
- garbage cans
The refreshment station can be set up prior to the information station.
School Bus Safety Rules
The following information should be provided to children and their parents. These can be printed on the certificates issued to First Time Riders. They can also be used in the review of school bus rules in other situations as well. The following information provides some additional information for safe school bus riding.
For ease of use and reproduction, these rules are also included in a separate section of this Guide.
Rules for getting on the bus safely:
- Be at the bus stop on time. Never run to or from the bus.
- Wait at the designated stop in a safe place well back from the side of the road.
- Remember the danger zone around the bus. The danger zone is anywhere close enough to the bus to touch it. The bus driver cannot see you when you are in the danger zone.
- If you cross the street to get on the bus: when the bus comes, wait until it has come to a complete stop. The bus driver will make sure all the traffic stops. The stop arm will be out and the red lights will be flashing. Watch the driver. When the driver knows it is safe, he or she will signal you to cross, but watch for traffic yourself. Walk, don't run.
- Hold the hand rail as you get on the bus. Don't push or shove.
Rules for Safe School Bus Riding:
- Take your seat promptly and sit properly, facing forward at all times.
- Hold bags and parcels in your lap. Do not stick your feet into the aisle: someone might trip
- Keep your head and arms-everything-inside the bus. Don't throw anything out the windows or around in the bus.
- Talk quietly. The driver must concentrate to drive the bus safely.
- Save snacks for snack time at school or till you get home. They may spill or you may choke if the bus goes over a big bump.
- No fighting, shouting or playing in or around the bus.
- Always follow the bus driver's instructions.
Rules for leaving the bus safely:
- When you leave the bus, hold the handrail and take two large steps away from the bus.
- To cross the street in front of the bus, walk ahead at least ten giant steps (three metres). Cross only when the driver gives a signal. Cross the street in single file.
- If you drop something near the bus, don't pick it up. Tell the driver or other adult.
- If everyone is getting off the bus, the people at the front leave first. Do not push.
- Be familiar with the rules for emergencies.
Draft news release
Adapt the following information as appropriate.
The news release should be issued two weeks to a month prior to the event, depending on the media. Follow up with the media to ensure that the information reached the right people. Keep a list of media contacts, and designate a volunteer to handle media calls. This person should be familiar with various aspects of school bus safety, and able to think on their feet, as reporters may ask questions not directly related to your event. The news release can also be used as a preliminary information piece to school officials, school bus operators and community groups who may not be directly involved in the event, but may wish to have more information.
The news release can be adapted as needed, depending on the organization responsible for holding the event.
Consider issuing a news release after the event in order to make the media aware of the number of participants and some of the information they learned. A quote from a parent will help to add interest. Note plans for holding the program next year. Reinforce the partnership between the school bus operator, school system, parents and children.
Send background material, such as the School Bus Safety Rules, along with the news release so the same safety messages are repeated.
Sample News Release
For Immediate Release
Teaching Children about School Bus Safety
(name of community, date of release) Children in___________ (name of town) will have the opportunity to ride a school bus and learn school bus safety rules with their parents at an information session scheduled for (time and date) at (location).
The one-hour (or 45 minute) session, sponsored by__________ (name of organization (s)) will feature a video, demonstration (s) and information for children and parents.
"The beginning of school is exciting for children, and we want to make it safe as well. We want to make sure that children are comfortable with riding on the school bus, that they know the rules for waiting for the bus, for getting on and off, and for travelling on the bus," says __________ (name of school bus operator, Principal or School Board Transportation Officer.) "This program provides the opportunity for children and parents to learn about the routines for safe school bus travel so that they are prepared for that first school bus ride. "
The program includes a video, an explanation of school bus safety rules, a ride on "the big yellow bus" for children and their parents, and the opportunity for parents and children to ask questions and to take information home to reinforce the principles of school bus safety at home.
The program is designed for children who are beginning school in the fall, but will be interesting to all children under the age of eight. Parents are asked to register by calling __________ (contact),
For information: (insert name and phone number)
Draft Public Service Announcement
Please adapt the following as appropriate.
Radio public service announcements are effective in getting a school bus safety message to the public.
In order to make the public service announcement as effective as possible, consider using a local figure who has some recognition in the community, by profession (i.e. police officer), or personal recognition (i.e. local celebrity). Appropriate figures can include:
- local police officers,
- school principals or school board officials
- school bus operators or drivers.
Make sure that the person you consider using has a clear voice, can speak without hesitation, and can project some animation and enthusiasm.
Local radio stations are usually agreeable to working with the community to develop effective messages.
An effective alternative, but one which should be undertaken with caution, is to use a child who has had some public speaking experience. Make sure that parental permission is obtained.
Keep the message short and use simple words. Write a sample script and make sure that the message can be delivered in the time allotted without rushing. Public service announcements are usually either 15 seconds or 30 seconds in length.
Sample Public Service Announcement Scripts
a) : 15 secs.
This is Officer (provide rank if appropriate) _____________________
with a school bus safety message.
When you encounter a stopped school bus
with its overhead red lights flashing,
traffic in both directions must stop.
Your co-operation can protect our children. It's good sense, and it's the law.
(b) 15 secs.
I'd like to remind you
that traffic in both directions must stop
for a stopped school bus that has its
overhead red lights flashing.
It's the law. The safety of our children depends on you.
A message from _____________ of the _____________ (name of organization).
Draft letter to Parents providing information on the First Rider program
Dear ___________
On ___________ (date), from ___________ (time) to ____________ (time),
_______________________(names of organization sponsoring event)
will be joining to present a First Rider program at ________________ (location).
This event is targeted at the children who will be attending ________________ school
in the fall of ____________ (date).
The First Rider program is an education and awareness program designed to promote school bus safety to young children and their parents. It familiarizes young children with school buses and provides information to children and their parents on school bus safety procedures, including school bus safety rules and how to get on and off the bus safely. The program, which includes a ride on a school bus, is planned as a fun learning experience for the participants and lasts about 45 minutes.
Education and awareness are important elements in ensuring that school transportation remains safe, and we encourage your family to participate in the event.
Please complete the registration form (or phone ____________) and plan to be at
___________________ (event location) on _____________ (date.)
Sincerely,
______________
Evaluation
When participants have completed the program, getting feedback on what they thought of the program, the components they found most or least useful, and other information, can provide some valuable information for the organization responsible for the event.
The following questions might be included. Add other questions as appropriate, but make sure the questionnaire can be completed in under a minute: parents with young children may be unwilling to spend much time on completing the questionnaire. Make sure that you provide pencils for the evaluation; people may not carry writing materials with them.
Also get feedback from your volunteers. They may have valuable information on how the program can be improved.
Suggested format
| Please let us know what you thought of the First Rider program. That way, we can make the program better next year. | ||
| I found the school bus safety information useful | yes | no |
| My child(ren) found the school bus information interesting | yes | no |
| I would recommend the event to others | yes | no |
| length of program | too long | too short | right length |
| How did you hear about the program: ____________________ | |||
| How can the program be improved: ____________________ | |||
| Other comments: ____________________ | |||
or the following:
| poor | fair | good | excellent | |
| video | ||||
| presentation | ||||
| information | ||||
| location | ||||
| time |
Follow Up
- after the event has been completed, make sure that the site is cleaned up.
- hold a "debriefing" with the organizing committee and the volunteers several days after the program to discuss how the program ran. Discuss numbers of participants, compared to expected numbers, venue, information provided, etc.
- write thank you letters to any groups who made donations, i.e. t-shirts, refreshments, free publicity.
- thank the school board(s), school bus operator and any organization (Kiwanis, Rotary, Scouts) who provided volunteers.
- write thank you letters for any media coverage received.
- store leftover information and or resource materials in a safe place for future events.
What it Takes to Drive a School Bus
The following general information provides parents, school bus driver applicants and the public with details on school bus driver qualifications.
School buses carry precious cargo, and the people who drive them carry the responsibility for making sure that school bus travel remains a safe way for children to travel.
To become a school bus driver, applicants must meet the highest standards of any licensing class. Ontario is the only province which has separate classifications for school bus drivers.
For detailed information on the requirements for school buses and school bus drivers, please refer to the "Official Bus Handbook for Bus and School Bus Drivers". The following information is provided as a general guide.
To drive a school purposes bus, school bus drivers must have either an "E" or a "B" licence. The "B" licence qualifies a school bus driver to drive any school purposes vehicle. A school bus driver who has an "E" licence is qualified to drive a school purposes vehicle that can only carry up to 24 passengers.
In order to become a licensed school bus driver, the applicant must:
- be at least 21 years of age
- meet medical and vision standards
- not be classed as a probationary or novice driver
- have successfully completed a driver improvement course approved by the Minister of Transportation
- have knowledge of bus equipment maintenance and passenger safety and control
- pass a Ministry of Transportation Driver Examination or obtain a certificate of competence from a recognized authority by passing a vision screening, knowledge test and a driving test in a bus of appropriate size
- not have accumulated more than six demerit points on his/her driving record
- not have had a driver's licence under suspension at any time within the preceding 12 months as a result of having been convicted or found guilty of:
- driving under suspension;
- speeding over 50 km above the limit;
- careless driving;
- racing on a highway;
- leaving the scene of a collision;
- a Criminal Code of Canada offence committed by means of a motor vehicle or while driving or having care and control of a motor vehicle;
- flight from police;
- not having been convicted or found guilty within the preceding five years of two or more offences under the Criminal Code of Canada, committed on different dates by means of a motor vehicle, or while driving or having care and control of a motor vehicle;
- not having been convicted or found guilty within the preceding five years under section 4 or 5 of The Narcotic Control Act of Canada;
- not having been convicted or found guilty within the preceding five years of certain sexual or morals offences under the Criminal Code of Canada;
- not have been convicted or found guilty of any offence for conduct that affords reasonable grounds for believing that he/she will not properly perform his/her duties, or is not a proper person to have custody of children;
- in addition, a holder of a class "B" or "E" driver's licence may not accumulate more than 8 demerit points.
If operating a school bus equipped with air brakes, a "Z" endorsement is required on the driver's licence.
Before proceeding onto the highway, the driver must complete all of the components (both inside the bus and outside) of the daily vehicle inspection (more information available in "The Daily Circle Check" of this Guide). As well, the driver must:
- check that the driver's seat belt is correctly worn and fastened;
- drive forward and brake to a stop to test the service brake;
- make an additional check of all gauges;
- complete the log book entry.
At the end of the bus run, the driver should do a physical check to make sure that all passengers have left the bus
For additional information on passenger management, school bus safety professionals may refer to the section of this Resource Guide entitled "Suggestions for Efficient Passenger Management: Bus Rules."
The Daily Trip Inspection
The following overview outlines a school bus driver's daily responsibilities for ensuring the safety of the school vehicle.
School buses, and school bus drivers, are the most regulated vehicles and drivers in the province. Every day, before taking a school bus onto the road, and while driving, the school bus driver is responsible for making sure that the bus is in safe operating condition. To do so, the driver must complete a "Circle Check": a thorough stationary and operating inspection of the vehicle, both inside and out. Information on any defects must be recorded in a logbook. The operator is responsible for repairing any defects promptly. The vehicle must be maintained in safe operating condition and meet all regulations.
The following is a general guideline. For more detailed information, please refer to the "Official Bus Handbook: For Bus and School Bus Drivers".
The daily trip inspection includes:
16 specific items to be checked in the outside inspection. These include:
- alternating lights, front
- headlights, directional signals, parking and clearance lights
- windshield and wipers
- engine compartment: fluid levels, wiring, belts and hoses
- tires (retreads are allowed on rear wheels only)
- exposed wheel nuts, lugs and studs
- exhaust system for leaks
- directional, stop tail and clearance lights
- emergency exit
- alternating lights, rear
- rear windows (for cleanliness)
- entrance door
- body condition, for sharp edges
- fuel system (for leaks)
- signs (for cleanliness and legibility)
- stop arm
Inside Inspection:
28 specific items to be checked in the inside inspection. These include:
|
|
Before proceeding onto the highway, the driver must:
- check that the driver's seat belt is correctly worn and fastened
- drive forward and brake to a stop to test the service brake
- make an additional check of all gauges
- complete the log book entry
The driver must also check and adjust all mirrors.
At the end of the run, the driver should do a physical check to make sure that all passengers have left the bus.
Suggestions for Efficient Passenger Management: "Bus Rules"
The following information is intended to provide school bus drivers with some ideas and suggestions for effective passenger management.
The safe transportation of school vehicle passengers in a school vehicle must remain the top school vehicle safety priority. In order to ensure this, there must be co-operation between school bus operators, school vehicle drivers, students, their parents and the school and school board.
The school bus is an extension of the classroom. Rules of acceptable conduct should be established and adhered to. A "Code of Conduct" should be established in partnership between the school bus operator, the school board and the school, with potential input from parents and students as well. To be effective, this information must be shared among the school, parents and students, school bus drivers and operators.
The three principles which govern school bus safety are:
- safety
- order
- respect
Drivers are responsible for the physical and emotional safety of the children who ride on their bus, as well as for their own safety. The child must be confident that the bus is a safe place.
The school bus driver has an obligation to maintain order and control. This control is compromised if passengers interfere with the service of the bus, or are doing things that will require resources to repair or deal with.
Everyone on the school bus, drivers and passengers, must respect the rights of others. Behaviour which compromises this respect should not be tolerated.
Any problem that occurs on the school bus will be the result of something interfering with one or more of these basic principles. The most valuable tools available to a bus driver are good judgement and common sense.
Acceptable behaviour must be identified, and the sanctions for unacceptable behaviour must be clearly stated and conveyed so they will be understood by all.
Different school organizations have different ways of ensuring this happens. For instance, Glen Park Public School, in North York, sends a letter home to all parents (whether their children use buses regularly or not) in the fall. This includes "school bus rules", and the sanctions for non-compliance. It also includes information for parents. Parents are required to read this information with their children, and both children and parents are required to sign and return a tear-off portion of the form to the school.
Additional suggestions for ensuring good passenger / school bus driver relations:
- establish a school bus route schedule; make sure that passengers and parents are aware of the schedule
- be on time
- make sure passengers and parents are aware of the schedule and the appropriate bus stop for their children
- greet students (by name if possible), and say goodbye
- recognize and reward good behaviour
- make sure that children get off at their own bus stop
- on school trips, count passengers before leaving and after every stop in which students leave the bus
- always check the bus at the end of the run to make sure that all passengers have left the bus
Establishing rules of conduct:
- students are expected to board the bus promptly and carefully, to take their seats and to make sure that book bags and other belongings are not in the aisle.
- students must remain seated and facing forward while the bus is in motion
- eating, drinking and smoking is not allowed on the school bus
- children may speak and chatter amongst themselves quietly, but crying out or shouting are not allowed
- passengers are not allowed to distract the driver
- passengers must not open windows without permission.
- passengers are not allowed to throw things about, or from the bus
- fighting or horseplay is not allowed
The rules for safe school bus travel must be reasonable, clear and consistent, and conveyed to parents and children.
- the school bus driver is not only responsible for the safe transportation of school bus passengers, but also for their safety on the bus. Data provided by the Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program (CHIRPP) indicate that of about 350 injuries related to school vehicles, one- third were due to "horseplay or inappropriate activity" or "fighting".
- drivers should abide by District Board of Education, school and school bus operator policies.
- to avoid problems, rules and responsibilities need to be established early, communicated, and maintained in a fair and consistent manner.
- do not ridicule students, or embarrass them in front of their peers
- treat passengers courteously and firmly. By showing respect, you will receive respect in return.
- explain the consequences their actions will have, and then follow through.
- do not argue or debate: explain the behaviour expected; repeat if necessary so the student understands. Ask questions in a calm, respectful, curious voice. Avoid accusations by not asking "why are you ...".
- never lose your temper. You are a leader and a professional.
- do not touch students. If, for example, a student requests that a window be opened, either ask an older student to assist, or ask the student to leave the seat and then open the window: do not squeeze into the occupied seat.
The Process:
The following information is provided as general information. Many District School Boards have policies and procedures in place for dealing with difficult riders, and these take priority over other factors.
If a process is not already in place, the operator, driver, school and District School Board may wish to work on developing a process jointly. Following are some suggestions to consider.
The driver should try to resolve issues on the bus, using positive approaches to promote the principles of safety, order and respect. The process for dealing with unacceptable behaviour should be laid out in written form. Drivers should ensure that unacceptable behaviour is fully documented. For chronic problems, the following guidelines may help:
First offence:
Verbal warning. The driver warns the student that the behaviour is unacceptable and records the warning. A "sample script" might follow this format:
"What are you doing?"
"What are the rules on this bus?"
"What happens when you break the rules?"
"Do you want that to happen?"
"Where do you want to sit, in your own seat or at the front of the bus?"
"What will happen the next time you break the rules?"
If the child avoids answering a question, repeat it calmly. If the child persists in not dealing with you, or if the unacceptable behaviour persists, ask:
"Do you want to stay where you are or move to the front of the bus?"
If the student does not comply, follow up with:
"I see you have chosen the front seat."
Require the child to sit in the front seat of the bus. This way of dealing with unacceptable behaviour should be time-limited: if the child behaves properly for a set period of time, the child may, at the discretion of the driver, return to his or her own seat, or move back to his or her seat in stages.
Second Offence:
The driver completes a "student behaviour report." This report may be found in the back of the logbook, or operators may have developed their own forms.
This form is submitted to the principal of the school for follow-up. It outlines the unacceptable behaviour. Once this course of action has been followed, it is important that the bus driver follow through by informing the school. If safety rules are not followed, and the bus driver is distracted, the safety and lives of other children as well as the motoring public is endangered.
Dealing with unacceptable behaviour
- document unacceptable behaviour. Write down the details: note the circumstances and provide the information to the school authorities, if possible on the day of occurrence. Keep a copy for your records.
- try to be proactive: develop a consistent plan for dealing with unacceptable behaviour:
- Have the child write down
- what they did
- the school bus rule that was broken
- how they will deal with the problem in the future
- Have the child write down
- do not make threats: if you say that a note will be given to the principal, follow through. Inconsistency will result in chaos.
- if it is necessary to eject a student from riding on the school bus, do so only into the hands of the parents, principal or police.
- learning students' names will help to build a relationship and to encourage students to take more responsibility for their behaviour.
- if necessary, assign seats to separate students who may misbehave if allowed to interact
- making sure that the bus is clean will encourage good behaviour
- do not lose your temper. This compromises your status as a professional.
- always be consistent.
School Bus Safety: Route Planning Factors
A number of elements contribute to school bus safety. One of these factors involves the school bus route. The following material provides some background information on school bus route planning.
Route Planning Factors:
- the locations of the homes of the children who need to be picked up and dropped off,
- the ages and physical condition of the students being bused.
- the distance from the school, the transportation guidelines set by the district school board(s), and the school hours
- cost factors and the opportunity to share resources among schools, school boards and school bus operators
- the number of passengers being served and the area being serviced
- ease of loading and unloading at the designated school bus stops
- the safety of walking routes between homes and school bus routes
- the amount of traffic, the type of roads to be travelled and their condition,
- sightlines and stopping distances at proposed school bus stops
- other conflicting traffic factors such stop signs, traffic signals, etc.
- seasonal considerations (i.e. snowbanks);
- safe turn-around points for buses.
When route layouts are being considered, the school bus operators and drivers can provide some valuable insight due to their hands-on experience and they should be involved in the process. The district school board transportation officer should be familiar with the physical characteristics of the route and should conduct periodic checks of the routes to ensure that safety factors are met.
Loading and Unloading: some routing guidelines
Street crossings:
Loading and unloading are critical procedures where students are at greater risk. This is especially true when children must cross the street to board, or leave, their school bus.
Routes should be designed to minimize the number of crossings which children must make to board or leave the bus. Wherever possible, passengers should be picked up and dropped off on the right hand side (home side) of the road. There are computer programs, in use in many school systems, which can help in developing safe routes. Drivers can also provide input on bus route and bus stop characteristics. Parents should be advised to meet their children on the side of the street where the child is being dropped off. A child excited to see his or her parents may forget school bus safety rules and run to the parent without waiting for the signal to cross.
As well, procedures have been put into place for loading and unloading passengers, and for maximum safety, these must be followed at every stop.
Loading and Unloading Procedures:
Before stopping the bus to either load or unload, the driver must turn on the upper alternating red signal lights. The school bus driver normally stops the bus in the middle of the traffic lane. When the bus has stopped, the driver must extend the school bus stop arm. For passengers who are getting on or off the bus, the bus must remain stopped with the lights flashing and the stop arm extended until all passengers who must cross the roadway have completed crossing.
This is mandated by the Highway Traffic Act and this procedure has been found to provide children who are entering or leaving the school bus with the greatest level of protection. The law applies everywhere, regardless of the posted speed limit or the type of highway. The only exception is on highways which are separated by a median strip.
On some two- lane roads where traffic may be backed up by the school bus, some school bus drivers have pulled off the road to facilitate the pick up and discharge of school vehicle passengers. THIS COMPROMISES THE SAFETY OF ALL ROAD USERS. Motorists approaching the school bus do not know whether or not children are entering or leaving the bus, and therefore do not know whether they are responsible for stopping for the bus.
When determining appropriate school bus stops, certain factors need to be taken into consideration:
- passengers should not be loaded or unloaded on a steep grade or on a curve. There should be a clear view of the road in each direction for at least 150 m. (500 feet).
- if the driver needs to stop near an intersection with traffic signal lights and use the red flashing lights and stop arm, the stop should be made at least 60 m from the intersection.
- if this is not possible, and if children must board or leave the bus at traffic signal lights, the driver must not activate the upper alternating red flashing lights and stop arm on the school bus. The stop should be made as close as possible to the intersection, close to the curb or the edge of the roadway. The passengers must be cautioned to obey the traffic signal lights. This is not advisable in route planning
- the school bus must stop on the travelled portion of the roadway and not the shoulder to load and unload passengers.
New Law:
The Highway Traffic Act has been amended to require that school buses stop at all railway crossings, whether the crossing is protected by gates or railway signal lights. The driver must stop the vehicle not less than 5 metres from the nearest rail of the railway; look in both directions along the railway track; open a door of the vehicle and listen to determine if a train is approaching; and, when it is safe to do so, cross the railway track in a gear that will not need to be changed while crossing the track. The driver must not change gears when the bus is actually crossing the tracks. The flashing lights and stop arm must not be activated.
Some guidelines for school bus stops:
- make sure that bus stops are free from hazards. The bus driver is most aware of the potential for hazards and should inform authorities if the safety of the school vehicle passengers may be compromised.
- make sure that school bus stops are accessible in all kinds of conditions: will snowbanks force children too close to the road in the winter?
- weather and road conditions should be considered in determining school bus turning points: areas should provide good visibility of oncoming traffic and firm traction, even in adverse conditions.
School bus operators should be aware that the school bus stopping law only applies to chrome yellow school buses as defined in the Highway Traffic Act, and only when loading or unloading children or adults with a developmental handicap. The drivers of other school purposes vehicles, and the passengers, must realize that they do not have the protection of the law as it applies to school buses. This necessitates extra caution in choosing places to stopas well as directing passengers as they enter and leave the vehicle.
School Bus Driver Orientation Day
Novice and experienced school bus drivers can benefit from the opportunity to get together to review procedures and exchange ideas. The following provides some suggestions for organizing such a forum.
What ... is a School Bus Driver Orientation Day?
The School Bus Driver Orientation Day is an education and awareness event for new drivers as well as a refresher for experienced drivers designed to provide information to assist them in carrying out their duties more effectively.
Some of the information which can be covered includes:
- passenger management techniques
- safe procedures for loading and unloading
- safe driving techniques
- school bus safety inspection: circle check
- legal requirements for school bus stops
- passenger he alth concerns
- proper placement and adjustment of mirrors for optimum field of view
- winter and inclement driving
Who ... is it for?
The School Bus Driver Orientation Day provides information for school bus drivers. It is an orientation for new drivers and a refresher for experienced drivers.
How ... Does it Work?
The School Bus Driver Orientation Day can be organized in a number of ways. Larger operators may provide the information for their drivers on a rotational basis, or operators may choose one day that is convenient for as many drivers as possible. A "Welcome Back" session in late August is one option. District School Board Transportation officials may determine an appropriate schedule. The event can also be organized by the drivers themselves, by a parent advisory council members with the assistance of qualified volunteers, police, etc.
When ... Does it Happen?
The program can be scheduled for any time. It might be most useful prior to the beginning of the school year when bus drivers are looking forward to resuming their duties, but may have time available to benefit from an orientation day without the pressures associated with daily school bus driving.
Where ... does it take place?
The program can take place at a school, bus bay or other location which can accommodate school buses and has seating and possible audio-visual facilities available.
Why?
The benefits of a School Bus Driver Orientation Day are that it provides drivers with the opportunity to share and exchange information in an informal way. It can provide new drivers with some effective tools to assist them in carrying out their duties, and is a refresher course for experienced drivers. It provides a forum for drivers to exchange information, tips and best practices in a "support group" environment. It provides opportunities to review procedures and to provide information on the reasons and benefits of these procedures.
For assistance in organizing a School Bus Driver Orientation ...contact local school bus operators, the District School Board, or the Regional Planners of the Ministry of Transportation's Road Safety Marketing Office:
| Central Region | 416-235-5486 | |
| Southwest Region | John Warkentin | (519) 873-4420 |
| Eastern Region | Paul Allore | (613) 545-4608 |
| Northern Region | Jeff Griffith | (705) 497-5453 |
| Northwest Region | Tom Marinis | (807) 473-2198 |
Information and Programs to Promote Enforcement of School Bus Laws
School Bus Stopping Law: Special Enforcement Program
The following information provides some suggestions to school bus safety stakeholders for organizing programs to influence the behaviour of motorists around school buses.
The Highway Traffic Act, which governs road user behaviour, is very clear on the responsibilities of motorists approaching a school bus:
"Every driver or street car operator, when meeting on a highway other than a highway with a median strip, a stopped school bus that has its overhead red signal-lights flashing, shall stop before reaching the bus and shall not proceed until the bus moves or the overhead red signal-lights have stopped flashing." (HTA 175 (11))
"Every driver or street car operator on a highway, when approaching from the rear a stopped school bus that has its overhead red signallights flashing, shall stop at least twenty metres before reaching the bus and shall not proceed until the bus moves or the overhead red signal-lights have stopped flashing." (HTA 175 (12))
The pen alties for illegally passing a stopped school bus were doubled in 1997. For a first offence, the pen alty for not complying with the law is a fine of $400 to $2000 and the assessment of six demerit points. For a second conviction, the fine is $1000 to $4000, and the assessment of six demerit points, as well as the option of a jail sentence.
While there has been little research into the actual incidence of illegal passing of school buses, anecdotal observation indicates that the problem is more widespread than the research has shown. To counter the problem, a number of communities have implemented awareness and enforcement programs. One of these programs has been successfully implemented in the Hamilton-Wentworth area.
What ... about "special enforcement programs?"
By working together co-operatively, stakeholders and local police services can initiate special enforcement programs to target illegal passing of school buses in communities.
"Operation Bus Watch" is both an education and enforcement program that reminds the public of their responsibilities when encountering a stopped school bus. The program began in Hamilton-Wentworth in 1993. Similar programs have been instituted in a number of Ontario communities.
Who ... is it for?
"Operation Bus Watch" provides school bus drivers, school bus operators, parent groups and the local police with an approach to deal effectively with the problem of motorists who do not stop as required under the "School Bus Stopping Law".
How ... Does it Work?
The program provides school bus drivers or others who witness a violation of the school bus stopping law with the mechanism to provide information on the infraction to the police. Police can then follow up and issue warning letters to the owner of the car that was observed passing the school vehicle illegally. If the driver can be identified, police can lay charges. The program serves to raise awareness of the responsibilities of drivers around school vehicles.
In order to establish a "Bus Watch" program, a number of factors must be considered. It is therefore necessary to determine, initially, which enforcement agency, or agencies have responsibility for the area in question. In some areas school buses travel on highways, county roads and local streets and a number of different operators have responsibility for providing school bus service.
Once jurisdiction has been established, and co-operation among school bus service providers and police agencies has been established within the jurisdiction of the school board, a single witness reporting form and process should be developed. It is essential that the form capture all relevant information and is compatible with police procedures. It is also necessary to establish criteria in order that school bus drivers and others know the circumstances around the reporting of infractions. It must be stressed that the safe transportation of school vehicle passengers remains the top priority for drivers, and that information should only be recorded when it is safe to do so. If school bus monitors are available, they may be able to assist in recording information. Drivers should be provided with written guidelines to follow. The intent is to create a simplified but effective system to identify and deal with "stop arm runners".
To improve the program's effectiveness, the public should be reminded of their responsibilities under the law, through information provided to the local media, news releases, radio public service announcements, etc.
School bus drivers or witnesses who observe an infraction obtain the licence number, and as much additional information as possible about the offending motor vehicle and driver. An "Operation Bus Watch" report form should be completed.
The form is submitted to the school bus operator who then faxes it to the police liaison officer. The police liaison officer obtains the appropriate vehicle registration information. The registered owner of the vehicle is sent a cautionary letter. At the discretion of the police officer, a charge may be laid against the driver.
Once the program has been in place for some time, patterns related to illegal passing may be identified. Given the information which the "Operation Bus Watch" program has provided, it may then be possible to establish a more targeted enforcement blitz. (See Enforcement Program 2).
When ... Does it Happen?
The program can be implemented and scheduled at any time. Because of the heightened awareness of "back to school" issues, it makes sense to highlight the program during the "back to school" period early in September. The program can also be implemented as part of other school bus awareness programs during school bus safety week (October).
Once established, the program should run smoothly and continuously.
Where ...does the program take place?
With the co-operation of local police, school bus drivers, school bus operators, school boards and the support of parent groups, an "Operation Bus Watch" program can be implemented anywhere.
Why?
School bus safety continues to be a high priority issue. The illegal passing of school buses which have stopped to pick up or discharge passengers continues to be an issue of concern for school bus drivers, parents, education officials and school bus service providers.
School Bus Stopping Law: Special Enforcement Program 2
The following information is designed to provide school bus safety stakeholders with additional programming options for influencing motorist behaviour around school buses.
School vehicle safety and the enforcement of Ontario's School Bus Stopping Law continue to be road safety priorities. Under the Highway Traffic Act, motorists are required to stop when meeting a stopped school bus which has its overhead signal-lights flashing and stop arm extended. The pen alties for not stopping for a stopped school bus that has its overhead lights flashing and stop arm extended were doubled in 1997, and are among the most severe under the Highway Traffic Act: a fine of $400 to $2000 and the assessment of six demerit points. For a second conviction, the fine is $1000 to $4000 and the assessment of six demerit points and a possible jail term.
With little research into the actual incidence of illegal passing of school buses, anecdotal observation indicates that the problem is more widespread than the research has shown. To counter the problem, a number of communities have implemented awareness and enforcement programs. A successful program in Hamilton Wentworth (information is available elsewhere in this guide) encourages school vehicle drivers and other witnesses to report when they observe illegal passing of school buses. Such a program can have educational benefits, as well as improving compliance.
One by-product of such a program is the identification of school vehicle routes or locations where infractions occur more readily.
If such locations or routes are identified, additional selective enforcement programs can be implemented.
Thunder Bay has implemented a school bus enforcement program to deal with illegal school vehicle passing which involves the use of a police officer on the school vehicle and an unmarked police cruiser.
Who ... is it for?
"Operation Bus Watch" provides school bus drivers, school bus operators, parent groups and the local police with an approach to deal effectively with the problem of people who do not stop as required under the "School Bus Stopping Law".
How ... Does it Work?
A police officer rides on the regular route of a school vehicle for the morning or afternoon run. The police officer is in radio contact with a partner in an unmarked police vehicle.
When the police officer on the school bus observes the illegal passing of a school vehicle which has its overhead lights flashing and stop arm extended the police officer notes the description of the offending vehicle, and if possible, of the driver. The police officer in the school bus then contacts the police officer in the unmarked cruiser. That police officer then stops the motorist who committed the offence.
Police report that this type of enforcement program is labour-intensive. However, because the timing of the program corresponds to the times when school buses are carrying passengers, police report that the scheduling does not conflict with the times when police enforcement is at its most critical elsewhere. Should a more immediate need arise, the police abort the school vehicle enforcement program.
This type of program is most effective on routes or at locations which have been identified through other means, as being "high risk". If witnesses have identified motor vehicles which have repeatedly passed stopped school buses, it makes sense to target enforcement. Another advantage of this program is that the "witness" component is taken over by police, who are both trained to note relevant details to improve the success of the enforcement and who take over this responsibility from the school vehicle driver, leaving the driver to concentrate on the responsibility of driving the bus.
When ... Does it Happen?
The program can be implemented and scheduled at any time. The actual enforcement corresponds to the morning or afternoon runs of the school buses. Police note that the program is not implemented when other known pressures restrict available police resources, including special events, inclement weather, etc,
The program has the advantage of being completely flexible in its timing.
Where ... does the program take place?
The program can be implemented on just about any school bus route where problems with illegal passing have been identified.
Why?
School bus safety continues to be a high priority issue. The illegal passing of school buses which have stopped to pick up or discharge passengers continues to be an issue of concern for school bus drivers, parents, education officials and school bus service providers
Resources Required: Co-operation and liaison with appropriate police agencies.
Information on Resources Available to Promote School Bus Safety
Resources
The following organizations provide resources on school bus safety. As well, school bus safety information and materials are also available from school bus operators, school boards, safety organizations and the police.
B & B Games
1754 Stagecoach Road
Greely, ON K4P 1M1
Tel: (613) 821-1111
Fax: (613) 821-0660
Board game on school bus safety
- Stop & Cross With the Lights
Canada Safety Council
1020 Thomas Pratt Place
Ottawa, ON K1G 515
Tel: (613) 739-1535
Fax: (613) 739-1566
Website: http://www.safety-council.org
E-mail: csc@safety-council.org
Wide variety of child safety, driving safety,
occupational he alth and safety literature:
- Defensive Driving Manual
- Elmer the Safety Elephant Goes to School
- School Bus Safety Booklet
Also driver training curricula and training aids:
55 Alive
Fleet F.L.I.
P.D.I.C Course
Canadian Automobile Association
Central Ontario Public & Government Affairs
Department
60 Commerce Valley Drive East
Thornhill, ON L3T 7P9
Tel: 905-771-3464
Fax: 905-771-3292
Curriculum and training programs for school bus patrollers:
- Recommended Practice for theSchool Safety Patrol
- School Bus Patrols
- Tips for Safe School Bus Riding
Channing L. Bete
(Publishers of Scriptographic Communications)
One Community Place
South Deerfield, Massachusetts, 01373
Tel: 1-800-628-7733 or (413) 665-7611
Fax: 1-800-499-6464
Website: http://www.channing-bete.com
Information materials, lesson plans, and activity
booklets for teachers and students.
- About School Bus Safety
- School Bus Safety Colouring Book
- School Bus Safety Activity Book
- My Book About Riding the School Bus
- Bus Safety Pop-Out Tip Sheet
Di Pasquale, Glenn
334 Buckingham Road
Newmarket, ON L3Y 6K5
Tel: 905-727-3141-2296
Publication and videos available on school bus passenger management.
Electrolab Training Systems
335 University Avenue, PO. Box 320
Belleville, ON K8N 5A5
Tel: 1-800-267-7482 or 1-888-CAN-TRAIN, or (613) 962-9577
Fax: (613) 962-0284
Hundreds of titles in video or computer-based training, for sale or rent.
Topics include: back safety; blood-borne pathogens/first aid; chemical training/WHMIS,driving safety; ergonomics; fire/emergency planning; playground safety; personal wellness and he alth; motivational/attitudinal; new hires orientation; personal protection; management and supervisory (including due diligence).
Sample titles:
- Buster and the Boosters
- If I Were the Bus Driver
- Pre-Trip Inspection
- Loading & Unloading
- Basic Driving Skills
- Safe Driving Principles
- Driver First Aid
- Emergency Evacuation
- Driving the Activities Bus
- Introduction to the Special Needs Bus
- Loading/Unloading the Special Needs Bus
- Evacuating the Special Needs Bus
- Transporting Physically Handicapped
- Transporting Mentally Handicapped
- Transporting Emotionally Handicapped
- Driver Awareness
- A Matter of Time
Kinetic Inc.
511 Bloor Street West
Toronto, ON M5S 1Y4
Tel: 416-538-6613 or 1-800-263-6910
Website: http://www.kineticvideo.com
Driver and ridership training videos for sale:
- Just in Case
- Because
- School Bus Accident Reporting & Investigation
- Trouble Spots
- Are You Ready?
- Êtes-vous prëts?
- Death Zones
- Zones Interdites
- And Then It Happened
L & K International Training
505 Queensway East, Suite 201 W
Mississauga, ON L5A 4134
Tel: 1-800-668-6064 or 905-270-6200
Fax: 905-270-3786
Website: http://www.lk-intl.com
E-mail: inquiry@lk-intl.com
Video training aids for sale.
- Air Brakes: What You Should Know
- Emergency braking
- Rollovers
- School Bus Pre-Trip Inspection
Magic Lantern Communications Ltd.
775 Pacific Road, Unit 38
Oakville, ON L6L 6M4
Tel: 1-800-263-1717 or 905-827-1155
Website: http://www.magiclatern.ca
E-mail: orders@magiclatern.ca
Ridership safety videos for sale:
- Pooh's Great School Bus Adventure
- Ridin' Cool to School
- Brutus En Autobus Scolaire
Ministry of Transportation - MTO INFO
301 St. Paul Street
St. Catharines, ON L2R 7R4
Tel: 1-800-268-4686 or 416-235-4686
TTY: 1-866-471-8929 or 905 704-2426
Website: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca
Information materials:
School Bus Safety and School Bus Stopping Law - brochures - English/French
Publication ordering:
Tel: 416-235-3473 or 1-800-373-5099
Fax: 416-235-5068
For: School Bus Safety Resource Guide - information package on school bus safety. Designed for use by police, community groups, school bus operators and educators. To obtain a copy, phone 416-235-3585.
Ontario Safety League
5045 Orbitor Drive, Building 11, Suite 100
Mississauga, ON L4W 4Y4
Tel: 905-625-0556
Fax: 905-625-0677
Over 200 titles in video lending library.
Classroom instruction and training aids for:
- Defensive Driving
- Professional Driver Improvement
- Coaching the Experienced Driver.
Classroom instruction and training aids for fleet trainers, including:
- Commercial Driving School Approval Program
- Fleet Driver Trainer
- Advanced Fleet Driver Trainer
- Accident Investigation
- Basic Driver Instructor
- Techniques of Instruction
- Classroom Instructor
Also awards programs:
- Safe Driver Award Program
- Safe Worker Award Program
Ontario School Bus Association
1 Eva Road, Suite 304
Etobicoke, ON M9C 4Z5
Tel: 416-695-9965
Fax: 416-695-9977
Website: http://www.osba.on.ca
Information and professional development programs for school bus fleets.
Training for the school bus trainer (prerequisite to signing authority):
- Professional Instructor in Driver Education (PRIDE)
- Driver Log Books
Video Tapes for sale:
- Air Brakes: What You Should Know
- Assertive Discipline for Bus Drivers
- Bus Evacuation: Practice Makes Perfect
- School Bus Pre-Trip Inspection
- WHMIS Video Primer
Master student activity page kits for sale:
- I practice school bus safety every day.
- Tous les jours, j'observe les règles de sécurité quand je prends l'autobus scolaire.
Operation Lifesaver, Inc.
1420 King Street
Alexandria, Virginia, 22314
Tel: 1-800-537-6224
Speakers bureau. Also highway-rail grade crossing awareness/training video for school bus drivers:
- The Responsibility is Ours
Publications Ontario Bookstore:
880 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M7A 1 N3
Tel: 416-326-5300
Publications Ontario Mail Orders:
880 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M7A 1 N8
Tel: 1-800-668-9938 or 416-326-5300
Fax: 613-566-2234
Access Ontario Bookstore:
50 Rideau Street
Ottawa, ON K1N 9J7
Tel: 1-800-268-8758 or (613) 238-3630
Fax: (613) 787-4055
Website: http://www.gov.on.ca
Highway Traffic Act and other Ontario Statues and Regulations.
Supply and Services Canada
Publishing Centre
Hull, Quebec K1A OS9
Motor Vehicle Safety Act, and other federal Acts and Regulations.
Transport Canada
Road and Motor Vehicle Safety Directorate
Ottawa, ON K1A ON5
Schematic drawings of school bus safety features:
- Safety Standards, School Bus (TP3813)
Transportation Safety Association of Ontario
555 Dixon Road, Suite 101
Mississauga, ON M9W 1H8
Tel: 1-800-263-5016 or 416-242-4771
Fax: 416-242-4714
Offers classified driver improvement and continuing education programs for drivers:
- Defensive Driving (now specific to school bus)
- Emergency First Aid and Accident Scene Management
- Transportation of Dangerous Goods
- Air Brake Endorsement
- Techniques of Accident Investigation
- Principles of Effective Training
- The Occupational He alth & Safety Act
- Core Certification Training
- Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention Program
- Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
- Lift Truck Hazard Recognition
- Fleet Driver Trainer
Video rentals and sales:
- Chargeable No, Preventable Yes
- Making It Work
- Your Living Room -Transport & Ambulance Versions
- Personal Safety in Trucking Operations
Occupational he alth & safety and loss prevention posters, booklets, and decals for sale.
Also Safe Worker and Safe Driver Awards Programs.
School Bus Manufacturers and Distributors
Many original equipment manufacturers offer driver and student safety materials in partnership with their recognized distributors.
Insurance Carriers
Many loss prevention departments offer driver training and safety awareness consulting services, posters, brochures, or other support materials.
Your Local Police Service
Some detachments will assist in ridership training and public safety awareness campaigns.
Your local School Board and school bus operator
may also be able to provide school bus safety materials.
Acknowledgements
This School Bus Safety Resource Guide has been produced by the Safety Policy Branch (Road Safety Marketing Office) of the Ministry of Transportation jointly with the Ministry of Education and Training. Valuable assistance has also been provided by a number of organizations, including:
- Ontario School Bus Association
- North York Board of Education Transportation Services
- Ontario Safety League
As well, the authors would like to thank a number of people who provided valuable insight, information and assistance, including:
Ruth Flynn, Nick Sanders, Jackie Laurie, Beverley Muir, Sheila Dove, John Rusnak, Bob Dendy, Carol Csengeri and Marilyn Junk.
Single copies of this Guide are available from:
Ministry of Transportation
Distribution Centre
1201 Wilson Avenue
Toronto, ON M3M 1J8
Tel: 416-235-3473 or 1-800-373-5099
Fax: 416-235-5068
The authors welcome any comments, feedback or suggestions. Please provide information to:
Manager
Road Safety Marketing Office
Ministry of Transportation
1201 Wilson Avenue
Building A, Room 212
Toronto, ON M3M 1J8
Tel: 416-235-4787
Fax: 416-235-5129
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