Decals can serve vital roles in improving visibility, conveying essential information, and enhancing the overall safety of school buses. Here’s a guide to choosing the right bus decals to meet these important needs.

Types of Bus Decals

  • Reflective decals: they are made with materials that reflect light, significantly enhancing the bus's visibility in the dark. Reflective decals are a must-have for school buses, as they make the bus more noticeable to other drivers, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.
  • Instructional decals: provide important instructions and information, such as “STOP WHEN RED LIGHTS FLASH” or “UNLAWFUL TO PASS WHEN RED LIGHTS ARE FLASHING.” These messages are crucial for educating other road users about the rules when a school bus is picking up or dropping off students.
  • Identification decals: these include the school district’s name, bus number, and contact information. They are important for easy identification of the bus, aiding in organization and management within the school district, and providing a contact point in case of emergencies.
  • Safety decals: decals indicating emergency exits, first aid kit locations, and other safety-related information ensure that students and staff can quickly locate essential safety features in case of an emergency.

Selecting the Right Decals

When choosing bus decals, consider the following factors:

  • Durability: decals should be made from high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and the daily wear and tear of school bus operations.
  • Visibility: opt for decals with bright, bold colors and reflective properties.
  • Adhesion: the adhesive should be strong enough to remain affixed to the bus for an extended period but not so strong that it damages the bus’s paint when removed.
  • Compliance: ensure that all decals comply with local regulations and standards. This includes size, color, placement, and reflectivity requirements.

Application Tips

Proper application of bus decals is just as important as selecting the right ones. Clean the surface thoroughly before applying the decal to ensure there is no dirt or grease that could affect adhesion. Apply the decal slowly and smoothly to avoid air bubbles. Finally, regularly inspect the decals to ensure they remain intact and legible, replacing them as necessary.

Conclusion

Choosing the right bus decals is a small yet significant step towards ensuring the safety and efficiency of school bus operations. By selecting high-quality decals, school transportation services can enhance the visibility of their buses and effectively communicate essential information to other road users. At School Bus Parts Co. of Canada, we offer a comprehensive range of bus decals that meet all these essential qualities discussed. To find out more, please contact us at +1 (800)-461-7660 or sales@schoolbuspartsco.ca.