Loading and Unloading Students, and Danger Zone Procedures
Loading and Unloading and the Danger Zone
This domain tests the exact sequence an Illinois school bus driver must follow at every stop and the 10-foot danger zone that surrounds the bus. The exam expects you to know who is responsible for a student from the moment the bus stops until the student reaches a place of safety.
Core rules
- Activate the amber warning lights before the stop, then the red flashing lights and stop arm only when the bus is stopped and the door is about to open.
- Stop with the right wheels at the curb or edge of the roadway, shift to PARK, set the parking brake, and open the service door. Do not let students exit until you have checked traffic and mirrors.
- Count students as they leave and again as they reach safety. You are responsible for them until they are clear of the roadway.
- Students must wait at least 10 feet from the bus and move only on your hand signal. Students crossing the road walk at least 10 feet in front of the bus, in your full view, and never behind it.
- If a student drops something in the danger zone, the student leaves it and tells you; never let a child retrieve it under the bus.
Worked example
A student drops a notebook under the front bumper. Reasoning: the item is inside the 10-foot danger zone and the driver's view is limited. The student must step back to the safe waiting point and signal the driver. The driver secures the bus (park, brake), checks mirrors, and either retrieves the item personally or waits until all students are accounted for and then moves the bus. The driver never allows the student to reach under the bus, even if the item is visible.
Traps
Moving the bus before every student is seated or clear; skipping the count because the route is familiar; letting students cross behind the bus to save time; using red lights while still moving.