Passenger Safety

Updated

Transit Surveillance Cameras:

Presently, all of Metro Transit's bus fleet, as well as its ferry terminals, have been outfitted with surveillance cameras to ensure greater security for its passengers and operators.

Signs and/or decals have been posted on the buses and terminals to advise passengers of the presence of cameras, as required by privacy laws.

Safe Trip Tips

A few simple steps you can follow that help make your trip a safe one:

• Plan your route ahead of time.
• Have your fare ready. Do not open your purse or wallet.
• Never run for a bus – it's better to wait for the next bus and avoid a serious accident. If an operator sees you and can stop safely, they will do so.
• Be careful that backpacks, bags, purse straps or coats don't get caught in the doors as you get on or off the bus.
• In slippery winter conditions, be extra careful getting on and off the bus.
• Never walk directly in front of or behind a bus – the operator and other drivers may not see you.

On the bus:

• Hold on to the grab rails! Sometimes an operator has to brake suddenly.
• Keep the aisle clear of tripping hazards such as bags, backpacks and briefcases.
• Stand back from the front of the bus so the operator has a clear view of the doorway and mirrors.
• For safety reasons, passengers cannot be barefoot on the bus, nor wear skates or roller-blades.

• Request a Stop - After 6 pm, passengers can ask the operator to disembark along the route other than a designated stop if it is safe to do so – just let the operator know in advance.

• Sit where you can see your upcoming stop, and disembark at the next one if you notice a suspicious person at the stop - if you feel apprehensive, sit near the front of the bus.

• If you're lost or ill, being harassed or threatened, or observe any suspicious activity on the bus, speak to the operator who will radio for help.

Request Stop

Initiated by the Metro Transit Safe Ride Committee, Request Stop is offered to unaccompanied persons; particularly women, children & seniors using regular service after 6 pm.

If you wish to disembark at a location other than a regular bus stop along theroute, speak with the operator at least one stop before our desired stop. For safety reasons, please exit via the front door of the bus.

In order to meet your request, the operator must be able to stop safely and obey transit safety regulations. Therefore, the operator has the right to deny your request and choose an alternate stopping point.

Backpack Safety

Passengers with backpacks are asked to be considerate of other passengers, as backpacks take up additional space in the bus. If possible, please remove backpack while on the bus and use caution as to not hit a fellow passenger.

Strollers and Children

For the safety and well-being of babies & young children, other passengers and Metro Transit operators, the following guidelines have been developed for those who travel with baby strollers.

Guidelines:

• Strollers should be small, light-weight and foldable. Recommended size should not be larger than 42” x 22.5”.

• Upon boarding the bus, children should be removed from the stroller and held by the parent or guardian. Those wishing to leave children in the stroller should remain near the front of the bus, utilizing the courtesy seats when available.

• The brake must be engaged at all times when the bus is in movement.

• The stroller should not obstruct the isle or impede the flow of passengers.

• Mobility-impaired passengers have priority of the front of the bus.

• At the operators’ discretion, larger strollers that impede the flow of passengers when boarding or exiting, or deemed unsafe for transport may be refused entry.

Metro Transit serves over 90,000 passengers daily throughout our community. We ask those travelling with strollers to be mindful of other passengers and follow the above guidelines.