What should you do when a school bus is stalled on a track at a railroad crossing?

When a school bus is stalled on a track at a railroad crossing, the best course of action is to evacuate the bus and move students away from the tracks. This response is critical because being on or very close to the tracks poses a significant safety hazard. Trains can approach quickly and without warning, and the risk of collision is real.

By evacuating the bus, you are ensuring the safety of all passengers, as staying on the bus could place them in harm's way if a train were to come. Moving students to a safe distance away from the crossing is vital, as it provides a clear space where they can avoid any potential danger from an approaching train.

This action prioritizes the well-being of everyone involved and allows for timely communication with emergency services if necessary, although notifying authorities would follow evacuation. It's also important to note that attempting to push the bus off the tracks or remaining on board to call for help does not address the immediate danger that a stalled bus presents on a railroad track. Evacuating ensures that everyone is out of harm's way as quickly as possible.