Personal Travel Safety Advice

Personal Safety Tips

We want to help you prepare for your journey and stay safe while you travel. These tips will help improve your safety and increase your confidence.  

Be prepared

• Plan your journey before you travel.

• Make sure you know your route and stop.

• Check the times of the last buses and trains.

• Try and have your ticket, pass or change ready in your hand so your purse or wallet is out of site.

• Make sure someone knows when and where you are travelling. Carry a mobile phone in case you need to contact them.

• Whenever possible, travel with a friend, family member, or a known companion. Having someone you trust by your side can provide an extra layer of safety and support.

• When travelling in a group, arrange a meeting point in case you get separated and supply everyone with the same contact number.

• If travelling at night or in an unfamiliar area, try and arrange for someone to meet you at the bus stop or train station.

• Always carry some form of identification with you, such as an ID card or a medical alert bracelet, which provides important information about your condition and any emergency contacts.

• Keep your belongings close to you and secure. Use bags with zippers or fastenings to deter theft or accidental loss.

• Have emergency contact numbers saved on your phone or written down. In case of any problems, you can quickly seek help.
  

Stay aware

• Be aware of your surroundings and look confident about where you are going.

• Avoid poorly lit areas and try to stay in sight of CCTV cameras or close to other people. 

• Wait for a bus or train in a well-lit place near to other people whenever possible.

• Keep your own belongings close to you and make sure valuables are kept out of sight.

• Avoid listening to personal stereos, as they can prevent you from being aware of what's happening around you.

• Don't hesitate to ask for help from transport staff or fellow passengers if needed. Most people are willing to offer assistance if they see someone in distress.

On public transport 

• When you board, choose a carriage or a seat where you feel comfortable.

• On a train, try to sit with other people and avoid empty carriages.

• If a bus is empty or it is after dark, it may be safer to stay on the lower deck and sit near the driver.

• If you feel uneasy, move to another seat or carriage.

• If you feel threatened, make as much noise as possible to attract the attention of the driver or guard.