School Bus Safety Tips For Solon Drivers, Students

SOLON, OH — As the holiday season approaches, and the days get darker and darker, the Solon Schools are reminding drivers of how to be safe around school buses.

"The safety of students on our school buses is our top priority. State law requires very specific safety precautions by bus drivers, students, family members and motorists to ensure student safety," the Solon School district said.

First, advice for students and families: Families should make sure students wear light-colored clothing. Students should use their assigned bus stop.

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Here's other advice for families during the winter months:

• Avoid free-hanging jewelry or zippers that can get caught on school bus equipment.
• Be ready and at the appropriate bus stop at least 5 minutes prior to the bus's scheduled arrival.
• Do not drive to catch up to a bus.
• Don't let children run to catch up to a bus.
• If a student drops something near a bus, tell the driver before retrieving it.
• Don't have earbuds in and music on when approaching a bus.

Here's school bus safety advice for drivers:

• Flashing yellow lights mean a bus is preparing to stop and let a child out.
• Flashing red lights mean the bus is stopped and a child is deboarding.
• The stop sign arm will extend whenever red lights are flashing. Drivers must stop when they see this sign.
• Buses may use a flashing white strobe light in addition to the red lights if weather is particularly bad.
• Four-way hazard lights will be used by buses when they approach a railroad crossing or are preparing to turn around.
• Drivers should cautiously approach buses turning around.
• Drive slowly in the morning, particularly when it's dark outside, because families and students may be waiting at poorly lit bus stops.