Downingtown Police Urges Caution During National School Bus Safety Week (Oct. 19–23, 2026)
October 19–23, 2026 is National School Bus Safety Week. Downingtown Police warns that passing a stopped school bus with its stop sign out, warning lights flashing and stop arm extended is illegal and offers safety guidance for drivers, students and parents.
Downingtown Police Department reminds the community that Oct. 19–23 is National School Bus Safety Week and urges drivers to slow down and never pass a stopped school bus with its stop sign extended, warning lights flashing, and stop arm out. Parents and students should wait at least 10 feet back from the curb, cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus after making eye contact with the driver, never walk behind the bus, and avoid the bus "danger zone" (10–12 feet in front, up to 10 feet to each side, and the area directly behind the bus). The department thanks bus drivers for their work and points to NHTSA for more information.