What must a driver do before opening the entry door of the school bus?

The requirement for a driver to activate the flashing red lights and ensure safety before opening the entry door of a school bus is critical for the protection of students and other road users. Flashing red lights serve as a visual warning signal to alert all nearby vehicles that children may be boarding or disembarking from the bus. This action creates a safe environment, minimizing the risk that drivers who are not paying attention may inadvertently drive too close to the bus, potentially putting students at risk.

Activating the lights first establishes clear communication with the surrounding traffic, thus ensuring that all vehicles are aware that they need to stop and wait until it is safe for children to approach or leave the vehicle. This practice aligns with safety protocols designed to protect students and facilitate a secure boarding and unboarding process.

Being parked is important for bus operation, but without the added safeguard of the flashing lights, simply parking does not adequately secure the area against traffic. Calling for assistance or checking weather conditions is not relevant to the immediate safety measures required before opening the bus door.