What is the primary purpose of covering the amber and red flashing lights on a bus?

The primary purpose of covering the amber and red flashing lights on a bus is related to safety, rather than personal use. The amber flashing lights are typically used to indicate that the bus is preparing to stop to pick up or drop off passengers, while the red flashing lights indicate that the bus is stopped and that passengers are boarding or disembarking. Covering these lights can create confusion on the road about the bus's status and reduce the visibility of its warning signals, which are crucial for the safety of both the students and other road users.

In some cases, if the lights are covered during non-school hours, this can help prevent unnecessary panic or distraction for drivers and pedestrians who might otherwise misinterpret the signals. However, the intention behind employing the lights consistently during operations is to ensure the maximum safety of the children who may be entering or exiting the bus. Thus, the appropriate option emphasizes the critical role of safety in the operation of school buses.