70 Bus Drivers Take Part in Real-World Emergency Safety Training

When it comes to student safety, preparation matters. 

Kalamazoo RESA hosted more than 70 school bus drivers from across Southwest Michigan for a hands-on emergency preparedness training designed to strengthen their ability to respond quickly and effectively in crisis situations. The event brought together transportation professionals and emergency responders for a day focused on one shared goal: keeping students safe. 

The day began with one of those impactful simulations of the day, a controlled bus burn with the help of the Comstock Township Department of Fire & Rescue. As drivers watched, the demonstration showed just how quickly a bus can become engulfed in flames. What began as a small fire rapidly grew, creating a powerful visual reminder of why quick decision-making and efficient evacuations are so critical in an emergency. 

“It is important to be prepared for an emergency, knowing how we need to react and that they are the leader." Said Patti Olivares, Transportation Training Specialist, "They’re the ones who are going to have to control 70 students and get them to where they need to be to keep them safe.” 

For many attendees, seeing the speed at which conditions changed transformed safety procedures from something learned in a training manual into a real-world reality. 

Throughout the afternoon, drivers worked through a variety of realistic emergency scenarios that challenged them to think critically, communicate effectively, and practice the procedures they may one day need to rely on. Stations included:  

• Fire Extinguishing 

• Reflective Triangle and Fusee Placement 

• Fogged Bus / Find the Students 

• Railroad Crossing Safety Procedures 

• Mirror Station & Danger Zones 

• Basic First Aid 

• Wheelchair Securement and Drag Evacuation 

The exercises provided valuable opportunities to reinforce emergency protocols and build confidence in responding to unexpected situations. A special thank you to Portage Public Safety for partnering in this important training. Their team provided valuable first aid and fire extinguisher training that gave drivers practical, hands-on experience responding to emergencies. Additionally, we would like to thank McDonald's Towing for their partnership at this event.  

Thanks to ongoing professional development opportunities like this one, transportation professionals continue to strengthen their skills and commitment to ensuring every student arrives at school and returns home safely.