Safety and Security on Metrobus and Metrorail

This page lists Metrobus and Metrorail safety and security tips and features. Also see the emergency evacuation animation (requires Flash).

On buses

In case of threatening or disruptive behavior aboard the bus, an operator can activate a silent alarm that goes through Central Control to the police. The disruptive passenger has no way of knowing the alarm has been activated or that police are on their way. When the alarm is activated, the destination sign on most buses automatically changes to EMERGENCY! CALL POLICE and the outside running lights flash to let approaching police know which bus sent out the alarm.
In any other type of emergency, the bus operator can call central control on the bus radio to request the help needed. For information about evacuation procedures, see the emergency evacuation animation. (Requires Flash)
Metrobus has earned the nation's top bus safety award because of its safety record and aggressive safety programs. Bus operators receive refresher training, focusing primarily on safety, every two years. Many Metrobus operators are trained in CPR, the Heimlich Maneuver, and other first aid procedures.
Metrobus uses its own safety teams to ensure operators follow all safety rules.

On escalators

For tips on escalator safety, see the Metrorail escalator safety page.

In trains

Call boxes at the end of each rail car enable any rider to report an emergency to the operator. Train operator is in constant radio communication with Central Control.
Every rail car has an emergency door release behind the panel next to the middle doors. The panel carries instructions for releasing the doors and evacuating passengers. For more information about evacuation procedures, see the emergency evacuation animation. (requires Flash)
Door chimes alert passengers to stay clear of the doors as they open or close.
Operator has ready access to an emergency button that instantly locks all the wheels on the train.

In stations and along right-of-way

Do not run in the station.
When waiting for a train, stand near other passengers. Do not stand on the platform's granite edge.
Listen for instructions over the loudspeaker system in the event that station evacuation is necessary. See the emergency evacuation animation. (requires Flash)
Promptly leave the platform after exiting the train.
If you need directions, ask the Metro station manager.

Features

Call boxes mounted on pylons on station platforms enable passengers to report emergencies to the station manager.
Closed circuit video cameras cover every area of the station. Monitors are in the station manager's kiosk.
Clear, uninterrupted sight lines, an architectural feature of every station, practically eliminate areas where criminals can hide. Enhanced lighting in all stations further reduces shadow areas that could be used for concealment.
Emergency call boxes are located at the far end of station platforms and every 800 feet along the tracks. Marked by blue lights, these boxes provide a hotline into Central Control and a button for bringing down third-rail power in extreme emergencies.
Flashing lights on the platform edge warn of approaching trains. A recessed area directly beneath the station platform edge provides emergency shelter for anyone who falls from the platform when a train is approaching. Anyone forced to use this area should use extreme care not to touch any part of the train while awaiting rescue. Exposed components beneath the car carry high voltage electricity.
Special antennas run through all tunnels to ensure high quality communication between police and fire departments responding to an underground emergency. Metro has a specially designed emergency evacuation cart for anyone unable to walk from the rail right-of-way.
Chain link fences block people from trying to cross outdoor Metrorail tracks. If anything hits the fences, causing a break or tilt, an alarm goes off in Central Control and any Metro train in the vicinity automatically stops.

In central control

Central Control has a computer display showing the precise location of every train in the system.
Central Control has a hotline to every police and fire department in the region.

Training and procedures

Metro conducts occasional mock disaster drills. We also provide intensive training for local fire and police departments on procedures for responding to Metro emergencies.
All members of the Metro Transit Police (MTP) and many supervisors, station managers, and rail operators are trained in first aid procedures, including CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. On-going safety training is part of the job of every train operator, station manager, and operations supervisor in the system.

Dealing with panhandlers

Panhandling and soliciting of any kind are prohibited on Metro.
Donate your money where it can do the most good, by supporting local social service programs.

Help prevent theft and fraud

Take precautions to protect your valuables:

Don't purchase a Metro farecard or pass from people on the street. It might be counterfeit.
To prevent others from knowing where and how much money you are carrying, purchase a multi-ride farecard or a Metrorail pass.
Always keep your jewelry and other valuables out of sight. Turn rings so that precious stones are on the palm side of your hand.
Keep a firm grip on your purse. However, avoid wrapping the strap around your hand or wrist.
Use a purse with a secure clasp. Keep the purse close to your body and your hand on the clasp.
Carry your wallet inside your coat or side trouser pocket, never in your rear trouser pocket. Also, place a rubber band around your wallet to feel resistance if it is removed from your pocket.
Beware of loud arguments or commotions that may be staged to distract you while your pocket is picked.
If your pocket is picked, yell out immediately to warn others. Don't be afraid to shout. Tell the train or bus operator and request the police.
Avoid standing near train car doors to lessen your chance of being crowded or bumped by others. If you're jostled in a crowd, a pickpocket may be responsible.
Never sleep on a train or bus.

Help prevent auto theft

Every 20 seconds, a car is stolen in the United States. Don't be a victim. To help prevent the theft of your automobile, remember these tips:

Park in busy, lighted areas.
Lock your car and take your key.
Use an anti-theft device.
Take valuables with you or lock them in the trunk of your car.
Use caution if hiding an extra key; thieves know where to find them.
Keep your driver's license with you and store the vehicle's registration out of sight. If convenient, take this document with you as well.
Have your car key ready as you approach your car.
Be aware of persons near you, especially at night.