Know the Danger Zones
The danger zone is the area all the way around a school bus where the driver cannot easily see a child — roughly ten feet (about three metres) on every side. Students are safest when they stay well out of this zone.
Stay out of the danger zone
No one should ever enter the danger zone unless they are absolutely sure the driver has given them permission to do so. The most dangerous areas are the ten feet directly in front of and behind the bus.
If you can touch the bus, you are too close!
The danger zone diagram on this page, as well as additional safety tips, can be found on the school bus safety page of the Ontario Ministry of Transportation website.
Danger Zone Rules
Stay out at all times
No one should ever enter the danger zone unless they are absolutely sure the driver has given them permission to do so.
Dropped something? Leave it
If you drop anything in the danger zone, leave it. Never stop to pick it up! If possible, speak with your driver about retrieving the item.
If you can touch the bus…
You are too close! Keep a full ten feet between you and the bus at all times.
10 Giant Steps
Using the “10 Giant Steps” rule is a good way to identify the danger zone around the school bus, particularly when crossing in front of the bus.
Get the driver’s attention
Always make sure you have the attention of the school bus driver when you are near the bus — approaching or leaving.
Never play near buses
No one should ever play around or near school buses, or other motorized vehicles.
Walk directly home
When leaving the bus, walk directly home.
Can’t see the driver?
Remember: if you can’t see the driver, the driver can’t see you!
Never behind any vehicle
Never walk or play behind any vehicle!