What signals a school bus that is preparing to stop to unload children?

When a school bus is preparing to stop to unload children, it utilizes both flashing red lights and a stop sign that extends from the side of the bus to ensure the safety of children getting on or off.

The flashing red lights serve as a warning to drivers that the bus has stopped and is in the process of letting children exit. These lights are an important visual cue that indicates no vehicles should pass the bus during this time, reinforcing the need for drivers to come to a complete stop.

In addition to the lights, the stop sign that extends from the side of the bus acts as an additional alert. This physical sign reinforces the message conveyed by the lights and legally requires vehicles to stop at a safe distance from the bus, enhancing the protection of children who may be crossing the road.

Both the flashing red lights and the extended stop sign are crucial elements of the school bus safety protocol, and understanding their significance helps ensure the safety of children during their commutes.