October 18, 2004
School Bus Safety Week Oct. 17 to 23 In Manitoba
School Bus Safety Week Oct. 17 to 23 In Manitoba'I see the driver, the driver sees me' is the theme for Manitoba's School Bus Safety Week, Oct. 17 to 23, Education, Citizenship and Youth Minister Peter Bjornson announced today.
"Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians must become part of the team that ensures students get to and from school safely," Bjornson said. "However, educating students continues to be the top priority and it's important to remind them of simple, effective safety tips such as making eye contact with drivers and cyclists before crossing a street."
Manitoba's school bus drivers receive intensive training that contributes to student safety including 24 hours of classroom instruction. They must obtain a Class 2 driver licence and a school bus operator certificate from the province. They also receive annual in-service training. A three-phase training program is available to certify school bus driver instructors who can then provide training and instruction to school bus drivers locally.
School buses in Manitoba have safety features that make them among the safest vehicles on the road. These features include eight-light warning systems, stop arms, crossing arms, laminated safety glass, high seat backs, roof hatches, retro-reflective markings, heated mirrors and anti-lock braking systems on new vehicles.
"While most drivers stop for school buses when the red lights are flashing, it is not uncommon for bus drivers to see a violation of the province's don't pass law almost every day," Bjornson said. "I ask everyone to remind friends and family members of these basic but very important rules and regulations that may help save the lives of Manitoba children."
The Highway Traffic Act requires that motorists stop at least five metres from the front and rear of a stopped school bus displaying signals. Drivers travelling in both directions must not pass the buses when warning lights are activated and stop signs are extended unless they are travelling on a divided highway. Failing to stop for a school bus displaying the signals carries a fine of $530 and two demerit points on the driver's licence.
School buses in Manitoba travel 33 million kilometres every year, transporting more than 60,000 students on 1,800 buses.
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