Emergency Preparedness

Our safety initiatives

At Metro, your safety is one of our core values. We've taken several proactive steps to enhance security and improve emergency preparedness throughout the entire transit system. These efforts include:

• Increasing the presence of Metro Transit Police officers and K-9 units systemwide
• Utilizing a network of more than 30,000 security cameras on buses, trains, and in stations
• Upgrading station lighting for improved visibility and safety
• Displaying more prominent and accessible safety information for riders
• Assisting customers facing mental or physical challenges are Crisis Intervention Specialists who help by connecting them with the right resources
• Training our first responders on how to mitigate Metro emergencies

As our commitment to safety continues to evolve, customers can expect to see even more improvements throughout the system. Together, these enhancements are helping to ensure a safer, more prepared transit experience for everyone.

Know your risks 

When you ride Metro, you can count on safety being one of our core values. We're constantly working to keep our stations, railcars, and buses clean, reliable, and well-maintained, while taking proactive steps to prevent and deter crime throughout the system.

Learn more about how to remain safe

Safety and Security Help

American Heart Month

Metro teamed up with DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services (FEMS) to build awareness of American Heart Month through in person and virtual community outreach. Throughout February, DC FEMS and Metro honored brave Metro employees who have used Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to save lives across the transit system. Together, we’re strengthening community readiness and helping riders feel confident in responding to cardiac emergencies.

Learn more about American Heart Month

Be prepared

To ensure safe and reliable service, Metro has comprehensive plans in place to manage service interruptions. We're prepared to respond quickly across the system-from stations and rail yards to parking garages and bus facilities-so you can keep moving, no matter the conditions.

• Inclement Weather Service Information
  • During periods of severe weather, Metro may limit or curtail service for safety reasons. Visit our severe weather guide to learn more.

Stay connected and informed

The Metro Safety Community Toolkit provides additional recent and ongoing safety efforts with social media language and creative assets.

Additional Resources

Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT)

 When emergencies happen, CERT members can give critical support to first responders, provide immediate assistance to victims, and organize spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site. CERT members can also help with non-emergency projects that help improve the safety of the community.

Learn more about FEMA Community Emergency Response Teams

Local CERT teams

• Alexandria, VA
• Arlington County, VA
• District of Columbia
• Montgomery County, MD
• Prince Georges County, MD
• All CERT Teams in VA

Ready.gov

Ready.gov offers detailed information regarding emergency preparedness for natural disasters.

Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Homeland Security & Public Safety

Metropolitan Washington COG Homeland Security & Public Safety offers information on local governments' cooperation on homeland security and includes links to the Regional Emergency Coordination Plan developed for the National Capital Area.

District of Columbia Home Guide to Emergency Preparedness

District of Columbia Home Guide to Emergency Preparedness offers Washington, DC residents' guidance to prepare their homes and families for most local emergency situations.

Maryland Emergency Management Agency

Maryland Emergency Management Agency offers residents a list of the local Maryland emergency management offices for all counties in Maryland.

Virginia Department of Emergency Management

Virginia Department of Emergency Management offers information for Virginia residents to increase their knowledge and preparedness for terrorism.