Buses  - whether they be school buses, tour buses, or general transport - are meant for public use. Because of this, a few dos and don'ts need to be adhered to, and warning signs to this effect are displayed in the vehicle.

Most signs posted in a bus would reflect on safety measures. Some of the more common ones being:

• When sitting in the bus the passenger's head and arms should be kept inside the windows.
• Front seat passengers should keep within the white line when preparing to alight.
• Before reaching the intended stop, passengers should signal the bus operator a few stops earlier.
• Passengers should avoid leaning against the rear door or standing in the stairwell.
• If a passenger has a baby/baby stroller, the stroller should be folded before entering the bus.
• If a passenger is travelling in a wheelchair, the bus operator should be requested to secure the wheelchair.
• Before actually alighting from the bus, an eye should be kept on the road for other approaching vehicles.

Some of the actual signs fixed inside, or on the outside of the bus are also important when it comes to safety.

• Stay clear of the door
• Buy ticket before boarding
• Bus - not in service
• Warning signs advising the length of the bus.
• Emergency exit lift handle
• Emergency door release
• Do not leave seat until parking brake is applied
• Seat belt must be worn
• Mind your step
• Please vacate this seat for an elderly person, pregnant mother or disabled person

It is important that passengers take note of the various warning signs displayed in the bus. Adhering to these signs can help to avoid accidents, as also make the journey more convenient for fellow passengers. Simple warnings such as ‘mind your step' and ‘stay clear of the door' also help to avoid accidents such as tripping or falling if sudden brakes are applied.

When buses are all parked in a particular bus terminus, it might get confusing as to which bus one has to board. The ‘bus – not in service' sign will help passengers not to waste valuable time entering and sitting in an empty bus.

Common courtesy dictates that elders, pregnant mothers and disabled persons should be given special treatment, where possible. So vacating a seat for any one of the above would definitely prove a good deed for the day.

Many people who are in a hurry (perhaps if they are late for work or an appointment) tend to get out of their seats when approaching their destination, and while the bus is still in motion. This should be avoided as for any reason if the driver has to suddenly brake, such people could be flung heavily to the side or ground and incur injuries.

As in the case of cars, complying with warning signs for use of seat belts, is important. Statistics show that serious injury in many accident cases has been avoided because the passengers were wearing their seat belts.