Although the chances of a terrorist attack on a school bus are minimal, being prepared is what counter-terrorism is all about. The following suggestions were provided by Bruce J. Schryver, vice president of loss control services for ICW Group in San Diego. • Practice a separation-of-assets policy. If possible, do not park or garage all buses in one location. If they must be parked in one area, separate them into smaller groups. This accomplishes several things: it makes them more secure and allows visibility around the groupings of buses, allowing local law enforcement and school security officers a better view of the yard area. Most importantly, it segregates the high-value buses from a total loss from a fire or explosion. Some school districts learn the hard way. In one case, a short circuit in the wiring of one bus caused it and 16 others to be destroyed in the ensuing fire. • Drivers should carefully check the inside of their bus for packages or backpacks at the end of their runs. Leaving them on the bus provides a secreting place for just about anything. • Drive confidently. Know your passengers and their parents and guardians. Contact: Bruce J. Schryver, bschryver@icwgroup.com.