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Authorities stress bus safety as school starts

Last update: September 07, 2009

Minnesota public safety officials are reminding motorists to be mindful of school buses and pedestrians as kids are heading back to school.

The Department of Public Safety says motorists should watch for children around school buses — especially in the "danger zone" which is the area around a bus where most injuries and deaths occur.

Parents are also asked to talk to kids about crossing streets safely after exiting a bus.

Among other things, students should take five "giant steps" out from the front of the bus before crossing the street — far enough so they can see the driver's face.

They should also look both ways for cars and make sure the driver says it's safe to cross.

Motorists must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus displaying red flashing lights or a stop arm.

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