(Area) It’s National School Bus Safety Week, with the theme “Safe Stops, Stronger Communities.” Iowa State Patrol Trooper and District #4 Public Information Officer Shelby McCreedy says the week serves a dual purpose: reminding motorists to drive safely around school buses and emphasizing the safety responsibilities of students riding them.
Trooper McCreedy explains that students first need to understand the “danger zones” around a school bus — areas where it can be difficult for the driver to see them.
She adds that one of the most important safety rules for students is to remain seated at all times while the bus is moving. Staying seated helps prevent distractions for the bus driver, whose primary responsibility is keeping every student on board safe.
When it comes to drivers on the road, McCreedy says there’s no gray area:
“Red means stop,” regardless of which direction you’re traveling.
She says many drivers get confused when the amber (yellow) lights start flashing — but those lights signal that the bus is about to stop. It’s a warning to slow down and prepare to stop.
McCreedy emphasizes a simple rule: If any lights are flashing — yellow or red — stop.
She says, “Nobody has ever received a ticket for being too safe.” When it comes to protecting children, she adds, “It’s always better to err on the side of caution.”
