The Ontario School Bus Association sent a template of a media release to its members so they can customize local messages on back-to-school and school-bus safety.
The news release is customizable for any school bus company located in the province. It notes that motorists must stop in both directions when approaching a stopped school bus with its “upper red lights flashing.” Fines for illegally passing a school bus ranges from $400 to $2,000 and six points on the motorist’s license.
The release also reminds parents and students of school bus safety rules, including: always cross the road in front of the bus; take at least 10 giant steps in front of the bus before crossing; pass the crossing arm, then stop and look at the bus driver and wait for a signal to cross the street; walk, never run, across the road.
School begins in Ontario on Sept. 1.
