After a student drop-off, what action should a driver NOT take when preparing to depart?

The action that should not be taken after a student drop-off is to activate the amber warning light system. This system is designed to signal to other drivers that the school bus is preparing to stop and that students are boarding or disembarking. Once students have safely exited the bus and are no longer in the vicinity, there is no need to signal with amber lights as this could confuse other drivers regarding the status of the bus.

Instead, the driver should ensure that mirrors are checked for surrounding traffic, confirm that the bus is secure, and close the doors before departing. These actions are essential for maintaining safety and ensuring a clear passage before moving the bus. Properly managing these aspects helps to prevent accidents and ensure that all students are safe as they leave the bus area.