When should you use the school bus warning lights?

Using the school bus warning lights is crucial for alerting other drivers of the bus's actions and ensuring the safety of students boarding or alighting from the bus. The correct choice indicates that these lights should be activated when the bus is preparing to stop for a bus stop. This serves as a communication tool for other vehicles, signaling that they need to slow down and be prepared to stop as well, since children may be entering or exiting the bus at that moment.

The activation of warning lights is specifically designed to enhance safety, as it warns nearby drivers to be cautious and vigilant, particularly in school zones or areas with children. They are not meant to be activated while the bus is simply in motion or only within residential areas. Additionally, limiting their use to just when picking up students would not account for the necessary caution needed during drop-off situations as well. Therefore, activating the lights while preparing to stop is the most appropriate and safety-conscious action for a bus driver.