Why is securing the bus important during inspections?

Securing the bus during inspections is crucial primarily for the safety of the students and personnel involved. When a bus is parked securely, especially during an inspection, it minimizes the risk of accidental movement that could pose a danger to anyone nearby. This includes ensuring that the bus does not roll away or tip over while the inspection is taking place, which is especially important in a school environment where children may be present. By stabilizing the bus, it allows inspectors and drivers to perform their tasks confidently, knowing that everyone is out of harm's way.

In the context of the other choices, while theft prevention and cleanliness are important aspects of bus maintenance, they do not directly relate to the fundamental purpose of ensuring safety during inspections. Being able to read safety manuals comfortably is also important but serves a different function unrelated to the immediate concerns of securing the bus for the safety of individuals involved. Therefore, focusing on the safety aspects reinforces the importance of proper procedures during bus inspections.