Getting new school supplies are not the only thing students need to prepare for the 2008-2009 school year. Safety always comes first, especially to Ontario school bus drivers carrying precious cargo.

The Ontario School Bus Association works closely with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Transportation to discover new ways to improve safety when transporting children to and from school. Most recently, a crossing arm has become standard equipment allowing bus drivers to see children easily from the front of the bus. This extension is mandatory for all buses built before 2005. Post 2005 buses included the crossing arm as standard equipment. However, to solve the equation for safety, students must get involved too!

"It's important for children to learn the proper way to get on and off the bus," says John Sharp, President of the Ontario School Bus Association. "For bus operators and drivers to do their job well, they need students co-operation at all times."

Many school boards and bus companies across Ontario organize the First Rider program, an education and awareness course promoting school bus safety to young children and their parents. This initiative is happening during the month of August.

The First Rider program outlines unofficial "rules" of the bus that should be taught to all children to minimize the chance of injuries. The area in front of the bus is where most injuries occur and is often referred to as the "danger zone". Some guidelines to follow when crossing the road after exiting the bus include:

1. Always cross the road in front of the bus, never behind.

2. Take at least 10 giant steps in front of the bus.

3. Pass the crossing arm; stop and look at the driver to give you the signal to cross.

4. Walk, never run across the road.

Transport Canada research showed that people on school buses are 16 times less likely to be injured in road collisions than the occupants of any other vehicle. However, this incredible track record can not always suffice.

Parents and their children are encouraged to attend the First Rider program in their neighbourhood.

For more information regarding the First Rider program and school bus safety contact your local school board or the Ontario School Bus Association at 416-695-9965 or e-mail Richard Donaldson at rdonaldson@osba.on.ca.