SECURITY 2J2 Public Transit Crime Avoidance Strategies

2J2 often receives inquiries from community members regarding their personal safety publicbuses. In response to those questions, we offer the following crime avoidance strategies:                                  Adopt a vigilant, defensive mindset and always be aware of your surroundings.                                                                                                                                  There is safety in numbers, so travel in pairs or groups when possible. If you must ride alone, if possible travel during busy times of the day while numerous other riders are present.                                     Try to sit in the front. Doing so will put you in close proximity to the operator who can summon law enforcement authorities if required.  Keep cash, mobile phones, laptop, jewelry, and other valuables out of sight.                                                                                                                              Never loan your mobile phone to strangers.                                                          Do not limit your hearing by the use of headphones or ear buds.                      If you must talk on the phone, remain aware of what is occurring around you.                                                                                                                                    Avoid texting and emailing with your phone as it focuses your attention on your phone’s screen and away from your surroundings. Activate your phone’s GPS tracking feature to assist in locating it if stolen.                                                                                                                                      Keep your phone locked while not in use to protect your data should your phone be stolen.                                                                                                         If your phone is stolen, immediately report the theft to your service provider and to law enforcement authorities.                                                While seated on a public bus, keep your purse, backpack, or other belongings onthe side of your body opposite the aisle.                                While waiting at a stop, keep your purse, backpack, and other belongings close to your body. “Snatch and grab” thefts are carried out most frequently when thieves can easily escape with stolen belongings. So be particularly mindful of your surroundings and protective of your property while waiting at stops and when the bus is at or near a stop.                                                                                                                    If someone attempts to steal your property, do not fight them for it or chase them.Doing so may result in bodily harm to you.                                  If you are the victim of a crime, try to become a good witness. What were the culprit’s gender, race, approximate height, approximate weight, hair style, clothing, facial features, and any other distinguishing characteristics? By practicing sound crime avoidance strategies, you can help protect yourself and your property while riding public transit