Pepper spray accidently discharged on a Manteca Unified school bus Friday morning forcing the driver to pull over.

The incident occurred as Sierra High juniors and seniors were being transported to the second day of the annual Every 15 minutes event staged by Manteca Police in conjunction with Manteca District Ambulance, Manteca Fire, and other public safety agencies.

The bus driver, when she heard a number of students coughing, pulled over and stopped the bus, Manteca Unified Assistant Superintendent Victoria Brunn indicated.

When the bus driver went back toward the back of the bus, she started coughing as well.

Once it was determined it was safe to proceed, the bus driver proceeded to the Every 15 Minutes event where students and the driver were checked out by emergency personnel already on hand.

In California, you must be at least 18 years old to purchase, possess, or use pepper spray for self-defense.

Generally, minors under 18 are prohibited from carrying it, with a narrow exception for those 16 or older who have written parental consent or are accompanied by a guardian.

Brunn could not comment on any potential disciplinary action given state law prohibits about sharing such information regarding students with the public.

Every 15 Minutes is a two-day program which challenges upperclassmen to think about the dangers of drinking and driving.

It involves a mock alcohol-related car accident with participation from police, fire department and paramedics on the first day and a mock funeral on the second day.

It is designed to dramatize the risks their actions can have on the lives of students as well as others.