Escalator Safety

Enjoy the convenience of escalators 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. Make sure you have no dangling clothing or loose shoelaces. Baggy clothes, rubber boots, and loose shoelaces can get caught in the moving parts of the escalator.
Always pick up your feet and step carefully on or off the escalator. Step over the combplate. 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 use a wheelchair or crutches. Individuals who may have difficulties accessing the escalator are encouraged to use the elevator.

Emergency buttons at the top and bottom of each escalator may be used to stop the escalator in an emergency. Signs explain use of these buttons and warn against misuse.
Hidden safety switches stop the escalator automatically when a misaligned or broken step is detected.
Bright yellow combplates and special lighting at the top and bottom clearly mark the escalator step-on and step-off points.
Round caps on the bronze deck between entrance escalators discourage any extremely hazardous attempt to use the deck as a slide for a person or object.