Trained, Skilled, Committed.
THINK SAFETYWe are committed to enhancing the safety of our riders
Not just anyone can get behind the wheel of a school bus. At Sharp, our drivers are committed to student safety, extensively trained and highly skilled at what they do. Our training program, approved by the Ministry of Transportation, ensures that our drivers are qualified and prepared for all situations. Starting each day with a thorough pre-trip inspection, our drivers demonstrate safe driving techniques and discipline on the bus, and are knowledgeable in bus braking systems, mirror usage and bus evacuation protocols.
We take pride in knowing that each one of our drivers is fully dedicated to safe school bus transportation. Our drivers are highly trained and skilled in monitoring traffic and road conditions, as well as managing up to 72-student passengers.
School Bus Safety is at the Core of What We Do.
SAFETY TRAINING IS YEAR ROUND
Safe transportation starts with a well trained and educated driver, but it takes the effort of everyone involved to ensure a ride that is as safe as possible. We believe in not only educating drivers but extending that education out to our most important stakeholders, our students.
Sharp provides multiple safety touch points for all drivers, students, parents, and consortia members year round to ensure the highest standard of safety training and education. We believe in continuous education, open communication and providing support to ensure the safest ride possible for our passengers.
PROMOTING A SAFETY CULTURE
At the beginning of each school year, and multiple times throughout the year, drivers are trained to reinforce safety rules on the bus, and to correct any student behaviours which may threaten student safety. Further, there is a focus on building healthy, inclusive and respectful environments. Sharp recognizes that creating a safe space does not just mean physically, but environmentally also. We strive to ensure our students always feel safe on the bus, free from any threat to their physical or emotional well being.
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
Sharp adheres to a strict maintenance and preventative maintenance plan to ensure that all vehicles remain as safe as possible for our riders. Our maintenance program is in place to not only minimize breakdowns, but also to reduce downtime, cost, and inconvenience to our stakeholders.
Our preventative maintenance schedule exceeds all regulatory and manufacturer standards for vehicle fitness. Our certified technicians receive ongoing training and have the latest diagnostic equipment with a focus on innovative technology. Additionally, our professional drivers conduct a pre and post-trip inspection on their vehicles on a daily basis, ensuring that our students are always riding a safe, and secure vehicle.
SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS & STUDENTS
WE ARE COMMITTED TO FINDING BETTER WAYS TO ENHANCE THE SAFETY OF OUR PASSENGERS.
Through continuous safety education at school and at home, we can improve the probability that your child will arrive safe to their destination. Reach out to your child’s school to find out what school bus safety training is available, and participate in educating them on the importance of school bus safety.
PREPARING YOUR CHILD FOR A SCHOOL BUS RIDE COULD SAVE THEIR LIFE.
KNOW YOUR ZONES
Statistically speaking, your child is most vulnerable to serious injury or fatalities in school bus related accidents outside of the vehicle (before they board or after they leave the bus, or crossing the street). Knowing your danger zones, and being mindful of them while travelling, can keep you and your children safe this school year.
LOADING
-
Stand 10 feet away from the road at all times
-
Wait for the bus to completely stop before proceeding
-
Enter bus in single file
-
Walk, don’t run
-
Use handrails
-
Find a seat right away and sit down
RIDING
-
Stay facing forward at all times
-
Do not place things in the aisle
-
Avoid rowdy behaviour; Do not throw things or eat or drink
-
Keep your arms and head inside the bus
-
Never distract the driver, always follow their instructions
UNLOADING
-
Use handrails
-
Don’t walk behind bus
-
Wait for crossing signal from your driver, signaling that it is safe to cross, before crossing
-
Walk 10 feet in front of bus when crossing
-
Always look both ways
-
Walk, don’t run
RIDER EDUCATION
Your best defence towards a safer ride. Videos courtesy of OECM School Bus Rider Safety Program, in partnership with the province of Ontario, and the Simcoe County Student Transportation Consortium (SCSTC).
School Bus Rules & Expectations for First-Time Riders
School Bus Rules & Expectations for Primary Students
School Bus Safety Rules and Expectations for Junior Students
Safety Tips: Riding the School Bus
Safety Tips: Boarding or Leaving the School Bus
The School Bus Rider Safety Program is designed to help you and your little ones have the safest ride possible when traveling to or from school. It is a knowledgeable and reliable resource containing standardized school bus rider safety training information for elementary students in Ontario. Find training materials, videos, modules and toolkits designed to teach students from kindergarten to Grade 8 about school bus safety rules.
Public Service Announcements
Attentive driving could save a child’s life; distracted driving is never worth the risk. Watch and share these videos to remind those around you to always pay attention, and NEVER pass a stopped school bus.