Every child deserves a safe trip to and from school.
That’s why our community is supporting the No Excuses campaign, a community-wide effort to remind drivers of one simple but lifesaving message:
No excuses. Stop for the bus.
When a school bus stops with its red flashing lights activated, Ontario law requires drivers to stop from both directions, unless the roadway is separated by a physical median. Passing a stopped school bus is dangerous, illegal, and puts children at risk.
What Drivers Can Do
Help keep children safe by remembering to:
- Stop every time a school bus activates its red flashing lights.
- Slow down near schools and along school bus routes.
- Stay alert during morning and afternoon school travel times.
- Remember that every stop helps protect a child.
Talk to Your Child About School Bus Safety
School buses are one of the safest ways for children to travel to and from school. Talking about safe habits before the school year begins, and reinforcing these habits throughout the year, can help keep everyone safe.
1. Arrive early and wait safely.
Get to the bus stop before the bus arrives and wait well back from the edge of the road.
2. Wait for the signal.
Only approach the bus after it has come to a complete stop with its red lights flashing or stop arm activated.
3. Ride safely.
Find a seat right away, stay seated facing forward, keep the aisle clear, and always follow the bus driver’s instructions.
4. Cross in front, never behind.
When getting off the bus, cross only in front of the bus after the driver signals that it is safe. Look both ways before crossing.
5. Stay out of the danger zone.
Walk at least 10 giant steps away from the bus so you and the driver can see each other. If you drop something near the bus, ask the driver or another adult for help. Never go back to pick it up yourself.
For more tips and resources on talking with your child about school bus safety, visit Middlesex Family Connections and select School Bus Safety under Safety Services.
You can also read The School Bus Is Here!, a free children’s storybook from the Ontario Ministry of Education, to help your child learn about school bus safety in a fun and engaging way.
Show Your Support
Help spread the No Excuses message in your neighbourhood by displaying a lawn sign at your home.
A limited number of No Excuses lawn signs are available free of charge at your local public library branch, on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last. To find the library location nearest you and hours of operation, visit the Middlesex County Library website.
Pick up a sign for your home and help remind drivers in our community that stopping for a school bus is required by law.
Learn More
Learn more about Ontario’s school bus stopping laws:
https://www.ontario.ca/page/school-bus-safety
Let’s work together to help make every trip to and from school a safe one.
No excuses. Stop for the bus.