The Susquehanna Regional Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety of our community's children as they travel to and from school. As part of this effort, we would like to remind motorists of the importance of obeying school bus safety laws.

When approaching a school bus with its lights flashing and stop arm extended, all traffic must come to a complete stop. This is a critical safety measure to allow children to safely board or exit the bus. Failure to comply with this law can result in serious consequences, including fines, suspension and points on your driver's license.

We urge all drivers to remain vigilant and cautious when driving near school buses, and to always be prepared to stop when encountering a bus with its lights flashing. Let's work together to keep our children safe.

If you have any information regarding school bus violations or concerns, please contact the Susquehanna Regional Police Department at 717-426-1164.

Remember, the safety of our children is a shared responsibility, and together, we can make a difference.

Please follow the tips below:

 https://www.penndot.pa.gov/travelinpa/safety/trafficsafetyanddrivertopics/pages/school-bus-safety.aspx

Tips for Parents/Students

If you leave something on the bus or drop something outside of the bus, never go back for it. The driver may not see you and begin moving the bus.

• Get to the school bus stop five minutes early so you won't have to run across the road to catch the bus.

• When waiting for the bus, stay away from traffic. Line up at least five giant steps away from the curb or the roadway to wait for the bus.

• Never run after the school bus if it has already left the bus stop.

• Never push when getting on or off of the school bus.

• Always walk at least 10 feet in front of the bus when crossing so that the school bus driver can see you.

• Be aware — cross with care! Wait until the school bus has stopped all traffic before stepping out onto the road.

• When the school bus is moving, always stay in your seat. Never put your head, arms or hands out of the window.

• Talk quietly; do not distract your school bus driver.

• If your school bus crosses railroad tracks, be calm and quiet so that your driver can listen for a train. Always obey your school bus driver's instructions, so that he or she can make safe decisions.

• Never play with the emergency exits. Backpacks, band instruments, or sports equipment may not block the aisle or emergency exits. If there is an emergency, listen to the driver and follow instructions.

• When getting off of the school bus, make sure that all drawstrings and other loose objects are secure so that they don't get caught on the handrail or the door.

• Never cross the street behind the school bus.

• Never speak to strangers at the bus stop and never get into the car with a stranger.