When travelling on the public transit, assaults & harassment can happen even in the presence of other commuters. Here are some tips on how to keep yourself safe:
Before getting on to public transit
- Plan your route – know the bus route and schedule
- Stay in well-lit areas or where there are other people – while you are waiting for the bus/TTC
- Have your fare ready when boarding –to avoid rummaging in your wallet or purse
While you are on public transit:
- Take note of the people sitting around you and their behavior – If possible, sit near the driver. If you feel uncomfortable with someone sitting nearby, change seats. If someone is bothering you or you feel threatened, let the driver know immediately.
- Avoid using cell phone or other electronic devices while travelling on public transit – this will not only distract you but it may also make you an appealing target for theft.
- Keep your personal belongings close to you – Put them on your lap or in front of you between your feet. Be aware of anyone trying to divert you attention; a thief may grab your bag while you are distracted.
- Stay awake – You can become an easy target. Its fine to chat with other passengers, but don’t divulge personal information
- Use your voice – If someone attacks or touches you, shout as loudly as you can to get the attention of other passengers and/or driver by using language such as “don’t touch me” or “stay away from me”.
Stepping out from public transit:
- Check to see if you are being followed – If you are being followed walk directly and quickly without running or looking back and go to the nearest public space where there are people (i.e. store, restaurant). Call 911!
- Walk with your head erect – Scan your route and proceed directly to the client’s home. Use the main entrance as much as possible and avoid rear or secluded entrances or short cuts.
- Let someone know when you expect to reach your destination – By logging in and out of your client visits on your work phone, lets us know you arrived safely to the client and where you are located. If possible, plan to have someone to meet you at your home bus stop.
What do I do when I’m being harassed on public transit?
- Reclaim your space – set a boundary by telling the harasser to stop and move away. Do not engage further in conversation or verbal attacks.
- Move away from the perpetrator – if you are sitting alone, find another person or group of people and stand or sit near them until you reach your destination. If you and the harasser are the only ones on the bus or transit car, sit near the driver.
- Ask for help – call for help or ask someone to alert the bus/transit driver or authorities.
- Record it – If you feel safe, try to record it. Either take a picture of the offender or ask people around you to record what is happening.
If you are in physical danger pull the yellow emergency bar located in different areas of the TTC trains, buses or streetcars. When you activate your alarm, TTC Transit Control Authorities and 911 will be notified
Download the Safe TTC App – on IOS & Android
The SafeTTC App can be used to report harassment, safety concerns or suspicious activity discreetly to TTC’s Transit Control Centre. For more information visit https://www.ttc.ca/riding-the-ttc/safety-and-security/safe-ttc-app