As schools in the UAE begin to reopen after the summer break on August 26, it is important for parents, students, drivers, attendants, and schools to remember the safety regulations related to school buses. While these rules have been in place for some time, it is always a good idea to review and refresh one’s knowledge of them. This article provides a simple guide for all parties involved to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone during school bus transportation.
Parents play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of their children when it comes to school bus transportation. They should make sure that their child arrives at the designated bus stop on time and inform the bus driver and attendant in case of delays or absenteeism. Students should board their assigned buses, enter and exit the bus in a single file, follow instructions, stay seated during the commute, and not engage in disruptive behavior. They should also refrain from eating or drinking on the bus and from peeping out of windows to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
School bus drivers are responsible for safely transporting students to and from school. They must wear their uniform and seat belt at all times, be fluent in English and Arabic, pick up and drop off students only at designated stops, avoid overloading the bus, adhere to speed limits, and carry a first aid kit onboard. They should also refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or smoking inside the bus to maintain a safe environment for the students and themselves.
Schools have a duty to ensure the safety and well-being of students while they are being transported on school buses. They must ensure that each bus is painted yellow with ‘School Bus’ written in both English and Arabic, assign attendants to monitor students, provide proper air conditioning and GPS tracking, install CCTV cameras, and maintain cleanliness and emergency exits on the buses. Schools should also provide fire extinguishers on buses longer than 10 meters to ensure safety in case of emergencies.
In conclusion, the safety and well-being of students during school bus transportation is a shared responsibility among parents, students, drivers, attendants, and schools. By following the established safety regulations and guidelines, everyone can ensure a safe and efficient school bus experience for all. It is important to review and adhere to these rules to maintain a safe and secure environment for students as they return to school after the summer break. Stay up to date with the latest news and updates related to school bus transportation to ensure a smooth transition back to school mode.
