October 19th through October 23rd is National School Bus Safety Week. 

Downingtown Police Department is urging drivers to be patient and slow down when they see school buses throughout the community. As a reminder, it is illegal to pass a school bus that is stopped with its stop sign out, warning lights flashing, and stop arm extended. Drivers who illegally pass these buses are putting the lives of children and their caregivers at risk of a potential deadly tragedy. Drivers should always obey the stop signs and flashing red lights and come to a complete stop until the sign and arm are retracted. 

For students and parents, it is important to familiarize yourself with some common safety tips regarding bus safety. Be Aware - Cross With Care!

• While waiting for the bus, ensure that you or your child is waiting at least 10 feet back from the curb or edge of the roadway.
• Never cross the street until the bus has come to a complete stop and the door is open. Cross at least 10 feet in FRONT of the bus, to ensure that the bus driver can see you. NEVER walk behind the bus.
• Make eye contact with the driver to ensure that they see you and that they signal that it is safe to cross before entering a roadway. Be Aware - Cross With Care!

The "Danger Zone" of the school bus. 

The danger zone is described as the area where children and caregivers are most at risk of being struck by the bus or passing traffic. It is the area 10-12 feet directly in front of the bumper, up to 10 feet out from either side of the bus, the entire area directly behind the back bumper, and the left side of the bus, where vehicles may illegally be passing. These areas are blind spots for the driver and the most dangerous areas for students and caregivers. 

DPD would like to extend its gratitude to all the hardworking bus drivers who help to keep the children in our community safe every day. Thank You!

For more information on school bus safety, please visit:  https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/school-bus-safety