What action should a driver take when stopping at a railroad crossing besides stopping?

When stopping at a railroad crossing, putting the bus in neutral or park is a necessary action to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. This step is crucial because it prevents the vehicle from rolling forward unintentionally after stopping. By shifting to neutral or park, the driver secures the bus in a stationary position, allowing them to maintain focus on the tracks and be attentive to any approaching trains. This is particularly important as the driver needs to look both ways for trains and listen for any warning sounds without the distraction of controlling the vehicle's movement.

Other actions, while they may seem reasonable, do not specifically contribute to the critical safety measures at a railroad crossing. For instance, turning off the engine could be impractical and potentially cause issues if immediate action is required. Closing windows might not directly impact safety at the crossing, and releasing the brakes would compromise the vehicle's safety and stability, posing a risk in a potentially hazardous situation. Therefore, shifting to neutral or park ensures that the bus remains safely halted while the driver assesses the crossing for any potential dangers.