How to Stay Safe on Public Transport

Travelling on public transport is a cheap and relatively easy way to get from A to B, for those who do not have the luxury of owning their own car.

However, this inexpensive method of travel sometimes comes with the cost of compromised safety, often when travelling alone. Here are some tips on how to stay safe on your journey.

Technology on Transport

Taking long journeys can often get boring, so it’s not surprising commuters often turn to technology to keep themselves occupied, but listening to music with headphones can make you less aware of your surroundings. So, although you might want to crank the volume up on that Adele album, the lower the volume, the more aware you’ll be. Perhaps consider putting just one headphone in instead.

Having technology in view of others is also a way to become a target to thieves. Be sure to keep any bags close to you, such as on your lap, and always fully-zipped. When checking your phone (especially for things like maps showing your address, or banking apps), check that no one is watching over your shoulder.

Night Time Travels

Using any form of public transport at night can be worrisome. If taking the bus, be sure to check the timetable beforehand, so you aren’t waiting around more than necessary. Where possible, wait only at well-lit stops that are often busier, such as bus stations. These places often have security nearby as well as security cameras that can act as a deterrent to attackers. Another deterrent is the appearance of confidence. If you seem confident, you appear more likely to fight off potential assailants or scream for help.

When taking the train at night, be sure to stay near the front. The last carriage is often the furthest away from everyone. The same idea applies with buses, as the back is furthest from the driver, and often darker. If you need to buy a ticket, check for people nearby before taking out your wallet; perhaps have a small amount of money ready before arriving.

Know where emergency buttons are and stay near them. When exiting a train, have someone pick you up from the station. If that’s not possible, get off in the brightest area, and be aware if someone is exiting at the same stop. If the station is empty and someone you do not trust is getting off too, stay on the train, as it provides more protection.

Off the Rails

When travelling by rail, it isn’t always just other people you need to worry about. As many would have seen in Metro’s 2012 campaign, ‘Dumb Ways To Die,’ train stations can be dangerous for the many hazards they present. Always be careful where you step, making sure to keep away from the rails.

The warning ‘mind the gap’ is announced constantly at train stations, telling passengers to be aware of the gap between the platform and the train. In 2014, a Perth man’s leg became trapped, showing that the warnings are necessary. Always be sure to cross the tracks at the designated crossings and beware of other vehicles when leaving the station.

Stay safe and alert when travelling alone. If you are worried when on public transport, call security or speak to the driver, or call 000 if the situation is serious.

Sarah Bellis is one of Student Edge’s student contributors. Learn more about the contributors program.