Published on September 26, 2013 | by Meaghan Ritola Photography by City of Mississauga
0Taming transit terrors: stay safe on your commute
As students file back for another school year, many are left dreading the lengthy commutes they have to face. But it is the students that take public transit who are ultimately worry the most. Every year a number of incidents occur on public transit systems that lead to student injuries and theft; but now, transit systems are making it easier for commuters to stay safe.
Recently Mississauga’s MiWay transit began a new program to allow individuals who are traveling at night to request a stop at locations other than designated MiWay bus stops. A spokesperson for MiWay said the ability to request a stop at night comes after perceived safety concerns for passengers, adding that the program “is well used.” Along with this program many transit systems offer safety tips to help commuters have a better, and ultimately safer ride. Below is a list of tips to help you stay safe on your commute.
Tip #1: Request a stop at night
This program allows any passenger who doesn’t feel safe during his or her nighttime commute to request a stop at locations other than designated bus stops. All you have to do is speak to the driver about where you would like to get off at least one stop ahead. This program, as University of Guelph-Humber student Meghan Murphy put it, makes her feel safer since there can be a lot of “wackos” on the bus at night. After a late night run-in with another passenger that left her feeling uneasy, Meghan’s only thought was, “I need to get home now!”
Available on: MiWay, TTC
Tip #2: Don’t chase the bus
Be sure to never run for your bus if you have missed it, especially if you have to cross a road or intersection to do so. If you do decide to take the risk you might just end up injured, or worse.
Tip #3: Use the transit wave
As you wait at a stop that more than one bus frequents, be sure to use the “transit wave” when signalling the bus you want to take. Simply wave down the driver so he or she knows you want to board. This helps ensure you do not miss your bus.
Tip #4: Stay away from the yellow line
When waiting at a transit station or platform, be sure to never cross the yellow line. If you do you could get hit by a bus or end up on the subway tracks. It is not a risk that you should take!
Tip #5: Always look
Always look as you board all modes of public transportation, particularly streetcars – some vehicles may not stop as you get on or off.
Tip #6: Stay alert
Always keep close watch over your belongings and be aware of those around you to ensure that you remain a passenger and not a victim. If a crime does happen while you are on board talk to the transit operator immediately to ensure the issue is handled properly.
For more important safety tips and information be sure to visit your city’s public transportation website.
• Photo courtesy of City of Mississauga, www.mississauga.ca
About the Author
Meaghan Ritola is a third-year media and journalism student at the University of Guelph-Humber who hopes to pursue a career in broadcasting. With a passion for music and a knack for discovering and researching up-and-coming artists, she would one day like to become a music-industry journalist.
Related Posts
Sketching the Line →
The Sound of Social Change →
Residents frustrated nuisance tree here to stay →
