Public transportation is a convenient and easy way to navigate your city or town—and one of the most popular. Did you know that 13 percent of people in the US use public transportation? Nevertheless, there can be safety concerns if you don’t use precautions and keep your wits about you. Knowing the risks associated with traveling alone can help you stay safe and get where you’re going with ease! Here are the main safety tips you need to navigate public transportation without issue…
Plan Your Route While Using Public Transportation
Planning your route is an essential part of travel safety. Taking time to figure out your route will ensure that you get where you’re going quickly and safely. This is especially important if you are new to the area that you’re navigating. We would suggest using Google Maps or another reputable travel-planning app to get directions and look at a map. Check out the website of the mode of public transit that you will be using. You can review the schedule, and make sure you will get to your destination on time.
When planning your route, be sure to account for accidents and traffic delays. Also, it’s never a bad idea to have a backup plan, like a different source of transportation- just in case you get stuck. It’s wise to let someone close to you know where you will be going as well, in case you run into trouble or don’t arrive back home on time.
Stay Aware While Using Public Transportation
If you read the articles on our site about personal safety, you will know that our number one personal safety tip in any situation is to be aware (this is our motto, Be Aware and Stay Safe!). When you’re out and about, this is especially important, as most dangerous situations don’t appear out of nowhere. You will usually spot signs, like a suspicious person, or a group of people who are anxious and becoming rowdy.
When you’re getting ready to board a bus, train, or subway, watch for people rushing the platform. Also, keep your purse or bag close to your side and be cognizant of who is standing next to you and what they’re doing or what vibe they’re giving off. Move away from anyone who seems troublesome and sit closer to the front.
Don’t use earbuds, or only use one of your earbuds so you can hear what is going on around you. Earbuds can also make you a target for robbery or attack as they’re expensive, and make you look unaware of your surroundings.
Be careful of poorly lit parking lots or desolate areas, and try to stay with the crowd. The more, the merrier, and the more people around, the safer you will be!
Take Care of Your Belongings
Unfortunately, one of the most commonly committed crimes on buses, trains, and subways is robbery. This is why you should always keep your belongings close to you while you’re using public transit. Keep your purse or bag closed up, and your arm resting over it, and avoid taking a snooze while you’re on the go. We know, we know…you’re exhausted. But you’ll be even more tired if you have to go to the police station to report a robbery or work longer hours to buy a new phone or bag.
Be Informed
It’s better to know in advance what to do in case of an emergency, instead of figuring it out as you go. This is why you should familiarize yourself with the rules of the mode of public transit you are taking, observe any safety risks or unsafe people, and know the important numbers to call in case of an emergency. Remember, non-emergencies can be directed to your local police department, and if there is imminent danger, call 9-1-1 or emergency services right away!
Be aware, and stay safe!
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