As the leaves begin to turn colors and the air turns crisp, we are reminded that winter and the inclement weather it brings with it is just around the corner. What can be done to prepare for this? Read on to learn more.

Here is what David Anderson, former Director of Transportation & Fleet at Adams 12 Five Star Schools in Colorado has to say about Onspot automatic tire chains on their school buses:

“Onspots are great tools! Give them some general maintenance and they last the life of the bus.”

What does a fleet manager say about Onspot?

The school bus of today has come a long way from buses of the past. A whole host of features ranging from tracking equipment, on board cameras, and seat belts are just a few features that can be found inside its signature yellow exterior. This technology is designed to improve both driver function and student safety. Rightfully so as thousands of these vehicles carry students of all ages from home to school and back again.

Of course, when hazardous conditions exist, schools are closed, and no buses are on the road. However, when caught unexpectedly in or even after a significant winter weather event, bus drivers take on the responsibility of transporting the children safely. How do they do this?

School may be out for the summer but this time of the year is still a busy one for the majority of bus drivers and fleet directors.  There are several state and local conferences drivers attend that offer the latest information, insights, and training on a wide range of topics. Some conferences even offer a bus "Roadeo" where drivers can put their skills to the test.  This is also a time when many school districts re-focus their attention on the previous school year.

Being a reliable bus driver, bringing school kids to and from school safely, every day of the year, is not happening by accident. By educating your self and understand what maesurements are available you take the control and makes it happen. Learn more how proud school bus drivers make use of good tools below.

We all know that driving a school bus can be a stressful job on a good day. Winter driving conditions make an already tough job even more difficult. We have assembled six tips to help you take the stress out of driving in winter weather.

Friction and traction are key to avoid sliding vehicles and spinning wheels.

Friction is defined as the rubbing of one object or surface against another. The friction between your vehicles’ tires and the road will determine maximum acceleration and minimum stopping distance. The force of friction depends on the force pushing the objects or surfaces together and the coefficient of friction. The coefficient of friction is the relationship between the force required to move the surfaces against each other and the pressure to stay in contact while in motion.

When is the correct time to engage your Onspot Automatic Tire Chains? This is a common question that we hear from our friends in the fire and rescue industry. Actually, it’s a frequently asked question in many of the markets that we serve.

My daughter first rode the bus to school about half way through her first grade year. After several months of her begging to ride, we swallowed our first time parent fears and allowed her to joyfully experience her first trip on the big yellow bus. She was excited to test her new freedom and we found out how much easier our mornings would become without the hassle of the school drop off.