What is the primary reason to turn off the bus engine when loading students?

Turning off the bus engine when loading students is primarily focused on safety reasons. This practice helps to prevent accidents and ensures that the environment around the bus is as safe as possible for the students embarking or disembarking. With the engine off, there is no risk of the bus moving unexpectedly due to an active gear or accidental acceleration, minimizing the potential for injuries.

Additionally, with the engine off, drivers can maintain better awareness of their surroundings and are more likely to notice students who may be near the bus. This allows for a safer interaction between the bus and the students as they get on or off.

Other considerations, such as noise distraction or fuel savings, while relevant in different contexts, do not carry the same level of urgency or priority. Safety is always the foremost concern when transporting children, making it crucial to follow policies that protect their well-being during the loading and unloading process.