How to stay safe when using public transport

Travelling by public transport is usually safe. These travel tips can make it safer and give you more confidence.

Top tips for using public transport safely

• Always wear your hearing technology on public transport.
• Learn the names of the stops you get on and off at. 
• Find out what time the last bus or train leaves.
• Wait for the bus or train in a place with good lighting. Wait near other people if possible.
• Try to sit where can see as much of the bus or train carriage as possible. Avoid sitting at the back of the bus.
• If you’re getting on a train, try to sit in a carriage with lots of people in it. If you get on a bus and it looks empty, sit on the bottom of the bus, near the driver.
• There are emergency alarms on every bus, in every train carriage and on every train platform. Look for where they are.
• Have your ticket, pass or change ready in your hand and keep your purse or wallet hidden in your bag. 
• Carry extra money in case you get stuck and need to take another bus or train. 
• If you’re a BSL user, carry a pen and paper so that you can communicate with a stranger if you need to.
• If you’re travelling at night or going somewhere new, ask someone to come and meet you, or walk near other people. 
• When you get off the bus or train, walk confidently to where you’re going. If you get lost, walk to somewhere safe, like a shop or well-lit street, before you check your map or ask for directions.
• If you miss your stop, don’t panic. Get off at the next stop and ask the bus driver or station staff the best way to get back. 
• If something happens to make you feel unsafe, try to get away at once. If you’re on a bus or train then move to a different seat or carriage. Try to tell the driver, guard, station staff or another adult what’s happening. Use the emergency alarms if you need.