“Be on Time”

Students should arrive at their assigned bus stop at least five (5) minutes before their scheduled pickup time for their safety.

As identified by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO), remember to:

• Be at the bus stop before the bus comes;
• Wait for the school bus far from the side of road, away from traffic;
• Walk — never run — across the road; and
• Enter the bus in single file — never push or shove.

For more information, see the MTO ‘School Bus Safety Smarts’ at: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/school-bus-safety.shtml.

“Choose a Safe Place”

While waiting for a school vehicle, be sure to wait a safe distance from the side of the road, away from traffic.

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) identifies the following tips for waiting for your bus safely:

• Be at the bus stop before the bus comes;
• Wait a safe distance back from the edge of the road — don’t play in ditches or snow banks; and
• Stay out of the DANGER ZONE: if you can touch the bus, you’re too close. Use 10 giant steps to remove yourself from the DANGER ZONE, and make sure you and the bus driver can see each other.

For more information, see the MTO ‘School Bus Safety Smarts’ at: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/school-bus-safety.shtml

“The March Melt”

Spring is coming, and with it comes fluctuating temperatures. Be careful on your walk to your bus stop and when entering and exiting the bus. Slippery conditions may be present.

As identified by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO), remember to:

• Use the handrail
• Not push or shove

For more information, see the MTO ‘School Bus Safety Smarts’ at: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/school-bus-safety.shtml.

“When is it Safe to Cross the Road to Catch My Bus”

The “10 Giant Step” rule is a good measurement for children to identify the DANGER ZONE around the school bus, particularly when crossing in front of the bus.

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) identifies the following tips for crossing the street to the school vehicle ‘The Safe Way’:

• If possible, have an adult help you cross the road.
• Before crossing, be sure you can see the stop arm and lights flashing.
• Wait for the driver’s signal before you start to cross.
• Look both ways and listen carefully to be sure it is safe before you cross.
• Walk — never run — across the street.
• STAY OUT OF THE DANGER ZONE AT ALL TIMES.
• IF YOU DROP ANYTHING IN THE DANGER ZONE, LEAVE IT. NEVER, EVER STOP TO PICK IT UP.

For more information, see the MTO ‘School Bus Safety Smarts’ at: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/school-bus-safety.shtml

“Dress to Impress”

Winter weather is here. Please be sure your students’ clothing provides the appropriate protection against the season’s weather while waiting for the bus.

Students are requested to be at their bus stop at least five (5) minutes before their scheduled pickup time. Any school vehicle delays of fifteen (15) minutes or greater will be posted under ‘View Bus Delays’ at: http://simcoecountyschoolbus.ca.

“Know Your Zone”

With winter weather upon us, please click here to confirm which Weather Zone your school corresponds to.
For up-to-date school vehicle cancellation information, visit the SCSTC website or follow us on Twitter @SCSTC_SchoolBus.

“Be Seen, Be Safe“

As daylight hours shorten, please be sure students walking to and from or waiting at their school vehicle stops remain visible. They should also stand a safe distance from the driven portion of the road.

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation identifies the following tips for waiting for the school vehicle ‘The Safe Way’:

• Wait for the bus at a safe place away from the road.
• Wait for the bus to stop before approaching to get on.

Remember, if you can touch the bus, YOU ARE TOO CLOSE!

For more information see the MTO ‘School Bus Safety Smarts’ at http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/school-bus-safety.shtml

“Emergency Evacuation – The Safe Way“

In an emergency evacuation situation, remember to:

• Listen to the driver’s instructions for the correct exit.
• Be calm, quiet and don’t panic.
• Leave your belongings behind.
• Leave the bus quickly without pushing or shouting.
• Walk to a safe place and stay together.

School Bus Safety Week in Ontario takes place October 18 to 22, 2021

“School Buses are back on the road”

Motorists – The SCSTC reminds all drivers to be extra cautious in the vicinity of school buses and around school bus loading and unloading zones.

Students – Review school bus safety tips at the beginning of the school year to ensure your school bus ride is safe and enjoyable. School bus safety tips and activities are available at Elmer’s Safety Village.