Metrorail safety and security
This page lists Metrorail safety and security tips and features. Also see the Metrobus safety page, safety and security FAQ, emergency preparedness page, emergency evacuation animation. (requires Flash), and Iraq war and safety and security press releases.
On escalators
Escalators look simple, like high-tech machinery. Enjoy their convenience but treat them with respect.
Tips
- Stand to the right, facing forward.
- Always hold children by the hand. Don't allow them to sit or play on the escalator.
- Check the direction of the escalator before you take the first step. Never walk up the down escalator or vice versa.
- Hold onto the handrail to help you keep your balance. Never ride on the handrail.
- Stand upright. Never lean on the side of the escalator or sit on the stairs.
- Stay clear of moving parts. Keep your hands, feet and clothing clear of the side panels of the escalator. Remember: loose shoe laces, rubber boots and baggy clothes can get caught in the moving parts of the escalator. Make sure you have no dangling clothing or loose shoelaces that could get caught.
- Step over the combplate. Always pick up your feet and step carefully on or off the escalator. Never drag or slide your feet off the edge of the escalator. Do not run on an escalator.
- Exit promptly from the escalator. Never stop, stand or play at an escalator landing; this can cause a dangerous pileup.
- Do not use escalators when you carry heavy or large packages or luggage, or have a child in a stroller. Use the elevator instead. Also use the elevator if you are a wheelchair or crutches user. Individuals who may have difficulties accessing the escalator are encouraged to use the elevator.
Features
- Emergency buttons at the top and bottom of each escalator may be used to stop the escalator in an emergency. Signs explain use of button and warn against misuse.
- Bright yellow combplates and special lighting at the top and bottom clearly mark the escalator step-on and step-off points. Hidden safety switches stop the escalator automatically when a misaligned or broken step is detected.Cylindrical caps on the bronze deck between entrance escalators discourage any extremely hazardous attemptto use the deck as a slide for a person or object.
In trains
Tips
- Please do not smoke, eat or drink, litter, play audio or video devices without headphones, possess dangerous flammable materials or bring animals (except service animals) on board.
- Please allow people to get off the train before you board. Once aboard, move to the center of the car.
- Pay special attention to children, especially when travelling in crowds. Before your trip, tell your children what to do if you become separated. Tell them to ask a transit police officer or station manager for help.
Features
- 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. See train 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
Tips:
- Do not run in the station.
- When waiting for a train, stand near other passengers. Do not stand on the platform's granite edge.
- Promptly leave the platform after exiting the train.
- Listen for instructions over the loudspeaker system in the event that station evacuation is necessary. See station evacuation animation. (requires Flash)
- Don't purchase a Metro farecard or pass from people on the street. It might be counterfeit.
- 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.
- To prevent others from knowing where and how much money you are carrying, purchase a multi-ride farecard or a Metrorail pass.
- If you need directions, ask the Metro station manager.
- Never sleep on a train or bus.
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.
- Emergency call boxes are at the far end of station platforms and are 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.
- Clear, uninterrupted sight lines, an architectural feature of every station, practically eliminates areas where criminals can hide.
- Recently enhanced lighting in all stations increases security by further reducing shadow areas that could be used for concealment.
- Flashing lights on the platform edge warn of approaching trains. Recessed area directly beneath station platform edge provides emergency shelter for anyone who falls from the platform when a train is approaching. Note: 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 fence, 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.
Ruin a pickpocket's day
Pickpockets love crowds. Take precautions to protect your valuables:
- 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.
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
