Drivers practise evacuation at the start of the school year and every month afterward.
- Assess the danger and choose the safest exit. Using both the front and rear doors is usually quickest, but if those exits expose people to fire or traffic, choose another. Roof hatches and side push-out windows are extra exits.
- Stay calm; give clear, slow verbal directions.
- Designate a leader to count passengers and guide them to a safe area away from the bus.
- Assign taller students at the rear to help others exit.
- Students nearest the danger exit first, one seat at a time.
- Leave all personal items behind.
- The driver walks the full length of the bus to confirm everyone is out, then exits and provides first aid if needed.
Common mistake: treating "fastest" and "safest" as the same. The fastest route is both doors, but the correct answer is always the safest exit for the specific hazard.
Recall: How often are evacuation drills practised? What does the driver do after the students appear to be off the bus?