TRANSPORTING STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

EQUIPMENT AND ASSISTIVE DEVICES IN A SCHOOL BUS

Item Storage and Securement Adverse Weather Hazards / Limitations Care and Maintenance Braces, crutches, walker, cane Secure so doesn’t become a projectile snow/ice/rain Store under seat or as far forward in the bus as possible Use strong bungee cord or other suitable device (not velcro) Traction in   Wheelchair If transfer possible Transfer student to regular seat and secure wheelchair Secure so doesn’t become a projectile If transfer not possible Wheelchair forward-facing and secured with 4-point tie-down system Tie-downs secured ONLY to main frame of wheelchair Occupant secured with a 3-point restraint system Shoulder belt attached to vehicle Lap belt attached to wheelchair 4-point anchor system or to vehicle Traction in snow/ice/rain Buckles become hot enough to burn in heat Straps become stiff in snow/salt conditions Brakes in working condition Wheels stable and in proper alignment No flat tires Acid battery not leaking Head rest and foot rest functional Tracheotomy tube Secure student so no interference with operation of tube   Keep free of dust; use A/C; close windows on dirt roads Clear airway if required IV or feeding tube (Feeding tube) Secure student so seat belt doesn’t interfere with operation (IV) Secure so doesn’t become a projectile   Watch for choking, gagging, nausea, vomiting Oxygen equipment/ventilator (Oxygen) Fasten with seat belt or other securement device in upright position (Ventilator) Secure close to student Secure so doesn’t interfere with operation Secure so doesn’t become a projectile Secure so doesn’t protrude into aisle Do not cover cylinder with anything Protect neck and valve area of equipment to prevent release of oxygen Watch lubrication of parts in wet conditions No oily rags to clean equipment No oil to lubricate valves, connections, or regulators Keep away from heat sources Keep well-ventilated No kinks in tubing Connections secure NEVER turn off alarms Conventional or special child safety seat Attach to regular seat according to manufacturers’ instructions     Guide dog Should be on leash (may have harness with handles) Doesn’t need additional restraint Will probably be on floor near student Should not obstruct aisles or block other students entering or leaving the school bus     Lap tray/board Remove and store securely during transport unless required by IEP for therapeutic positioning Secure so doesn’t become a projectile Store under seat or as far forward in the bus as possible Use strong bungee cord or other suitable device (not velcro)   Maintained by student

HANDOUT #5