If you discover a major safety issue with the bus, what is the proper course of action?

When a major safety issue is discovered with the bus, the most appropriate and responsible action is to notify the maintenance shop and your supervisor immediately. This ensures that the problem is assessed and addressed by qualified personnel who can evaluate and repair the issue effectively. Safety is paramount, and promptly reporting any significant concerns helps to prevent potential accidents or failures that could endanger the driver, students, and other road users.

Driving slowly to the nearest service station could put the driver and passengers at greater risk, as some issues may worsen with movement. Attempting to fix the issue on your own could be dangerous if the driver lacks the necessary skills or tools, and could also lead to further complications. Finally, waiting until the next scheduled maintenance to report the issue neglects the urgency of ensuring that the bus is safe to operate, which could result in serious consequences if the issue poses an immediate threat. Thus, the immediate reporting to the maintenance shop and supervisor is critical for maintaining safety standards.