When approaching an RR crossing, what should the driver do with the master switch?

When approaching a railroad crossing, the correct action is to turn off the master switch when necessary. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of passengers and the bus itself. The master switch controls the electrical power to various lights and warning devices on the bus. By turning it off if required—especially if the bus is equipped with a visual warning system that may become a distraction or cause malfunction near the crossing—the driver can concentrate on the task of safely navigating the area. This action aligns with established safety protocols aimed at preventing accidents and enhancing awareness during critical points of travel, such as railroad crossings.

Maintaining the switch in an "on" position at all times may lead to potential distractions or complications if the lights are not needed or malfunction, while checking it only when there's a problem is inadequate because a preventive measure must be a proactive part of the approach. Lastly, not touching the master switch throughout the trip could lead to oversights in safety measures at critical points like railroad crossings.