What should emergency exits on a school bus be?

Emergency exits on a school bus must be closed but not locked to ensure that they can be easily opened in the event of an emergency. This requirement is crucial for the safety of all passengers, especially children who may need a clear and unobstructed path to exit the bus quickly. Keeping the exits closed maintains the structural integrity of the bus while preventing unauthorized access.

When the exits are not locked, it allows for rapid egress if a situation arises, such as an accident or fire. This readiness is vital for protecting the lives of students and ensuring that emergency responders can assist swiftly if needed.

In contrast to this correct choice, having emergency exits locked at all times would defeat the purpose of these exits and could lead to severe consequences during an emergency. Likewise, if exits were open for ventilation, this could create hazards both while driving and during emergencies. Visibility for safety checks is important, but merely being visible does not account for the functionality needed during a crisis. Hence, the requirement for these exits to remain closed but not locked is paramount for ensuring passenger safety.