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Rider Safety Tips
Here are some tips and guidelines from a rider’s perspective—covering everything from waiting for your ride to reporting concerns.
Safety Tips For
Seniors
- Wait for the bus or train to come to a complete stop before approaching to board.
- Always use handrails or handholds, and take a seat promptly as the bus or train may start or stop suddenly.
- Find seats at the front of buses or near train doors, which are prioritized for seniors and persons with disabilities.
- Choose safe spots. Stand or sit in well-lit areas near other riders.
GoPass Students
- Ride with a friend whenever possible. Safety is in numbers when you stay together on the bus or train.
- Never run after or next to a moving bus or train.
- Stay alert. If you need to use your phone, look up from your screen often, and keep one earbud out so you can hear what’s going on around you.
- If you ever see someone acting in a way that makes you uncomfortable, move away.
Parents Traveling with Kids
- Keep your children away from playing near buses, trains, or tracks: pushing and shoving can cause accidents.
- Hold onto your child when a train or bus approaches.
- Never let your children run after or next to a moving bus or train.
- Hold onto your children upon boarding and exiting trains and buses.
Rider Safety Best Practices
- Plan Your Trip
Use the Metro Trip Planner or a transit app to check schedules in advance. - Get the Transit Watch App Now
Be prepared to report a concern by downloading the Transit Watch app in Advance - Arrive Early
Give yourself enough time to board safely. - Stay Alert
Keep an eye on your surroundings and trust your instincts if a situation feels off. - Report Concerns
If you see something, say something. Not sure what or how to report? Here’s a guide.
Transit Etiquette
- Board and Exit Politely
Let passengers exit before you enter, and avoid blocking doors or aisles. - Mind Noise Levels
Use headphones for music or videos, and speak at a moderate volume on phone calls. - Keep Aisles and Seats Clear
Store personal items so others have space to sit and stand comfortably. - Offer Your Seat
to those who need it more, such as seniors or persons with disabilities. - Follow the Code of Conduct
Adhere to posted guidelines—no smoking, no drugs or alcohol, and be respectful of fellow riders.
Personal Property Protection Tips
Secure Your Belongings
Keep purses, backpacks, and bags zipped and close to you. Avoid displaying valuables, such as cash or electronics, in plain view.Stay Organized
Have your TAP card or fare ready before boarding to reduce time rummaging through your wallet or bag.Remain Aware
Even while on your phone or reading, remain aware of what’s happening around you so you can respond if something seems off.
FAQs
- Use the Transit
- Watch App
- Text 213-788-2777
- Call 1-800-METRO-SAFE
- Ask a Metro Employee or Ambassador
Harassment is not permitted on Metro. If someone harasses you or others on Metro, first try to move to a safer area, such as near the train or bus operator or a well-lit, populated section. In an emergency, call 911 or use emergency intercoms available on trains and platforms. In a non-emergency, report the incident to Metro police or staff, or through the official reporting system.
Stay alert, wait in well-lit areas near other passengers, keep belongings secure, and report any suspicious behavior to Metro staff or police.
To travel safely at night, stay in well-lit areas, be aware of your surroundings, ride in the front car near the operator or sit near the bus driver, and report any concerns to Metro staff or police.
Download the Transit Watch App to report safety concerns anonymously, share details with Metro security, and receive important alerts in real time. It’s best to have it installed on your phone before you need it.
