School Bus Driver how-to
How to Perform a Post-Trip Child Check
Children have been left asleep on buses. A full check prevents this.
Quick answer
Children have been left asleep on buses. A full check prevents this. In short: secure; walk; check, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Secure the bus after the last stop.
Walk to the back of the bus.
Check every seat and under seats.
Deactivate the child check alarm if equipped.
Record defects.
Lock the bus.
Safety reminders for school bus drivers
- Follow loading and unloading procedures exactly
- Use railroad crossing procedures at every crossing
- Perform a child check after every route
- Practice evacuation drills
Key terms
Danger zone · Stop arm · Amber warning lights · Red flashing lights · Railroad crossing procedure · Pre-trip inspection: see the full school bus driver glossary.