Resources
Safety tips
Bus
At the stop
- Stay vigilant around buses for a safe arrival.
- Never run alongside a moving bus; wait for the next one if needed.
- Approach bike racks cautiously, always from the curb.
- Ensure visibility in low-light conditions by wearing reflective clothing or using lights.
- Avoid crossing in front of a moving bus; use caution and look both ways.
- Exercise caution around parked cars; do not cross the street between them.
- Wait on the sidewalk for your bus and ensure it stops before approaching.
- Cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus so the driver can see you.
Getting on
- Allow other passengers to exit before you board.
- Do not step into the roadway until the bus has stopped and the door has opened.
- Use the handrail when boarding.
On the bus
- Special areas are designated for elderly customers and those with disabilities.
- Please surrender these seats when needed.
- Never stick your arms or legs in the doors to prevent them from closing.
- Never put your head, arms or hands out of the window. Keep aisles clear of feet, books, bags, etc.
Hopping off
- Use the handrail when exiting.
- Never leave any personal belongings unattended. Carry your valuables inside your garment. Securely clasp your purse or bag.
General safety
- Thieves often work in teams. Be aware if you are bumped or squeezed between people.
Light Rail
The tips below have been sourced from Metro Transit's Safety on METRO lines page.
- Light-rail transit is safe – as long as everyone obeys warning signs and complies with barriers.
- It is not only unsafe but against the law to walk along light-rail tracks or to trespass on rail bridges or in tunnels.
- Pedestrians, motorists and bicyclists must cross only at designated crossings. Tracks at these intersections are embedded in the ground, level with the street, for safer crossing.
Near the rail station
- Trains can come on any track, at any time, from either direction. Never assume you know when and where to expect a train.
- Never try to beat a train through a crossing – it takes the length of two football fields for a train to stop.
- Safety only takes a second – light-rail trains move faster than freight trains. If gate arms are going down, stop. The train will clear the intersection in a few seconds.
- Slow down and be alert near rail stations. Watch for pedestrians, trains, buses and cars.
On the station platform
- Turn down your mobile device near the platform and rail crossings.
- While waiting for the train, always stand behind the yellow line on the platform.
- Stand back until the train stops. Be careful of trains leaving the station.
- Keep children together and away from the tracks until the train stops completely.
- Cross tracks only at the ends of the platform.
- Running or horseplay on the platform is dangerous – especially near moving trains.
- Skateboarding, rollerblading and riding bikes on platforms is not permitted.
- Wait for other passengers to exit the train before you board.
- Do not stick arms or legs in the doors to prevent them from closing; just relax and wait for the next train, it is just a few minutes away.
On the train
- Please surrender your seat to elderly customers or those with disabilities, if needed.
- While riding, please remain seated. If standing, hold onto the rails in case of sudden stops.
- Make sure children stay near you while riding.
- Keep children under control while riding. Running or horseplay on the train can be dangerous.
- Keep suitcases and backpacks out of others’ way – each train has luggage racks.
- Secure bikes in racks.
Listen up
Unlike freight trains, you might not hear a light-rail train approaching. Pay attention near the tracks.
- Listen for train horns and warning bells.
- The ends of a light-rail train are identical. Red taillights mean a train is moving away from you.
- Look both ways before crossing the tracks by car, bike or on foot.
Tracks are for trains
Tracks aren’t a place to explore.
- Stay away to stay safe. Never walk on tracks and stay away from track switches, which can move at any time.
- Stay away from high-voltage overhead wires that power the trains. Don’t touch them with kites, models – anything.
- Cross tracks only in designated areas.
Cold weather
Everyone is at risk from the dangers of extreme cold. Age and certain conditions can increase this risk. It is important to:
- Dress in loose layers and cover all exposed skin.
- Consume hot foods and warm drinks, avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
- Leave early - rushing or running increases the chance of slipping.
- Stand back a few steps from the curb in case a vehicle slips on the road.
- Use handrails to get on and off the bus.
Late night
- The Campus Connector and University Avenue Circulator operate extended hours when demand is high.
- Gopher Chauffeur is available seven nights a week.
- Metro Transit routes 2, 3, and 6 operate late hours.