School Bus Driver how-to
How to Unload Students at a Stop
Most school bus injuries happen outside the bus, in the danger zone.
Quick answer
Most school bus injuries happen outside the bus, in the danger zone. In short: turn; stop; check, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Turn on amber lights well before the stop.
Stop fully, set the brake and open the door to activate red lights and stop arm.
Check mirrors for traffic and students.
Let students exit and cross only when you signal.
Count students and watch until they are safely away.
Close the door, check mirrors and pull away carefully.
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.