Before stopping a bus, how should you test the brakes?

Testing the brakes before stopping a bus is essential for safety. The correct method of slightly pressing the brake pedal, then removing your foot, allows the driver to assess the brake response and ensure they are functioning correctly. This action gives immediate feedback regarding the brakes' effectiveness, as it engages the braking system without committing to a full stop.

Additionally, it's crucial as it helps the driver identify any issues with the brakes early on, ensuring that they can consider other safety measures if there is a problem. The other options, while they may seem plausible, do not provide the same direct test of brake functionality. Pumping the brakes can be useful in certain situations but is not a standard pre-stop testing method. Using the emergency brakes isn't meant for regular assessments; it’s intended for emergency scenarios. Checking for warning lights is a good practice but does not directly test the brakes in real-time as pressing the pedal does.