What should drivers do to protect themselves from potential threats?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and maintaining a secure environment while operating a school bus. Being aware of surroundings allows drivers to recognize potential threats, such as unusual behavior from passengers or from individuals outside the bus. This proactive approach helps ensure the safety of both the driver and the children on board.

Maintaining a secure environment involves checking that all doors are secure, monitoring passenger behavior, and being vigilant about external factors that could pose risks. This awareness enables drivers to react promptly if a situation arises, helping to prevent incidents before they escalate. A school bus driver who is engaged with their environment can also create a more controlled and conducive atmosphere for students, fostering a safer overall experience.

In contrast, keeping the bus windows open could pose safety risks by allowing external elements to enter the bus or creating vulnerabilities to outside threats. Engaging in conversations with strangers diverts attention from the driving responsibility and could lead to distractions that compromise safety. Solely focusing on driving while ignoring all distractions could mean being unprepared to respond to potential threats or changes in the bus environment, which is counterproductive to maintaining safety. Thus, being aware of surroundings and actively ensuring security is the best practice for protecting oneself and the students on the bus.