How the system works

The safety device requires drivers to check the entire vehicle before exiting. After turning off the engine, the driver or an assigned staff member must walk to the back of the bus and press a confirmation button indicating that no children remain inside.

If the button is not pressed, the system assumes that the vehicle has not been checked. After three minutes, it triggers an audible alarm and flashing lights.

Should the driver still fail to press the confirmation button, the device will automatically call the driver’s registered phone number to remind them. If there is no response, it will proceed to call two pre-registered emergency contacts.

Ensuring safety through technology

Colonel Nguyen Do Hai Nam, Director of the Center for Research, Application, Development, and Transfer of Criminal Science Technology, stated that the device was showcased at the Vietnam International Defense Exhibition 2024 and has now entered mass production.

Since early 2025, the system has been operational with stable performance. To improve accessibility, the center has partnered with mobile network provider Viettel to offer discounted service packages for the device.

Following a successful trial run in Vinh Phuc, where 10 school transport vehicles in Vinh Yen were equipped with the system, drivers have expressed satisfaction with its ease of use and effectiveness.

A necessary measure after tragic incidents

The development of this safety device follows a series of heartbreaking incidents involving children being left on school buses. One of the most recent cases occurred on May 29, 2024, when a 60-year-old driver in Thai Binh province forgot a child inside a 29-seat bus, resulting in the student's death.

In response to such tragedies, Vietnam’s new Road Traffic Order and Safety Law, effective from January 1, 2025, mandates that all school transport vehicles be equipped with image recording devices and child safety alert systems.

By leveraging advanced technology, the Ministry of Public Security hopes to prevent similar accidents and enhance student safety on school buses nationwide.

Duc Hoang