Every school day, thousands of Oregon students rely on school buses to travel safely to and from school. During National School Bus Safety Week, October 19–23, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) encourages drivers, families, students and communities to work together to keep children safe on and around school buses.

Observed annually during the third full week of October, National School Bus Safety Week brings attention to the importance of school transportation safety while recognizing the dedicated professionals who help students reach their destinations safely each day.

This year's theme, “Safe Rides, Everyday Heroes,” highlights the important role school bus drivers, transportation professionals and everyday community members play in protecting students.

School Bus Safety Is Everyone's Responsibility

School buses are among the safest ways for students to travel to school, but children can be especially vulnerable when approaching, boarding or exiting a bus. Increased awareness, responsible driving and safe pedestrian habits can help prevent crashes and injuries.

OEM encourages Oregonians to practice the following safety measures throughout the school year.

For Drivers

• Know when to stop. Oregon law requires drivers to stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights, with limited exceptions for vehicles traveling in the opposite direction on certain divided highways.
• Slow down in school zones. Follow posted speed limits and remain alert for children crossing streets or walking near roadways.
• Avoid distractions. Put away mobile devices and give your full attention to the road, especially during school arrival and dismissal times.
• Maintain a safe distance. School buses make frequent stops. Allow extra space and be prepared for sudden changes in traffic.
• Watch for children. Students may unexpectedly enter the roadway near bus stops, parked vehicles or intersections.

For Parents and Caregivers

• Review bus stop safety. Teach children to wait in a safe location away from the roadway until the bus comes to a complete stop.
• Plan a safe route. Identify safe walking paths to and from the bus stop, including designated crosswalks.
• Dress for visibility. During darker fall and winter mornings, consider bright clothing, reflective accessories or other visibility aids.
• Practice safe habits. Remind children to avoid running, pushing or playing near roadways and bus stops.
• Prepare for changing weather. Rain, fog and reduced daylight can affect visibility and road conditions. Allow extra time when traveling.

For Students

• Arrive at the bus stop early and wait in a safe location away from traffic.
• Wait until the bus has completely stopped and the driver signals that it is safe before approaching.
• Use handrails when boarding or exiting the bus.
• Remain seated, follow the driver's instructions and keep aisles clear.
• Never walk behind a school bus.
• If crossing in front of the bus, stay far enough ahead for the driver to see you and wait for the driver's signal before crossing.
• If you drop something near the bus, tell the driver rather than attempting to retrieve it yourself.

Recognizing Our Everyday Heroes

School bus drivers and transportation professionals do more than transport students. They help maintain safe environments, respond to unexpected situations and serve as trusted members of school communities.

From navigating changing weather and road conditions to helping students safely board and exit, these professionals play an essential role in student safety.

National School Bus Safety Week is an opportunity to recognize their dedication and thank them for the important work they do every day.

The annual National School Bus Safety Poster Contest also encourages students to participate in promoting transportation safety through creative artwork. The contest gives students a voice in sharing safety messages with their schools, families and communities.

Building a Culture of Safety

Emergency preparedness begins with everyday actions. Whether practicing safe driving habits, reviewing transportation plans with children or recognizing potential hazards, small steps can make a meaningful difference.

As Oregon moves into the fall and winter months, shorter daylight hours, wet roads and changing weather conditions make awareness especially important.

OEM encourages families to use National School Bus Safety Week as an opportunity to discuss transportation safety, review emergency contact information and ensure children know what to do if an unexpected situation occurs during their trip to or from school.

Keeping students safe is a shared responsibility. By staying alert, following traffic laws and practicing safe habits, every Oregonian can help make every school bus ride a safe one.

For more information about school bus safety, visit the National Association for Pupil Transportation.