Regional Transit Crime Prevention Tips

• Be Alert!
• Be Informed!
• Be Involved!

Transit Safety

When riding Regional Transit, patrons may help protect themselves form becoming victims of crimes by following a few proven crime prevention techniques. The following information may help in making your trips safer and more enjoyable.

Personal Safety

Always be alert and aware of your surroundings and the people around you. If possible, travel with someone else (there is safety in numbers) . Walk assertively and confidently. Do not appear weak or submissive. Dress for ease of movement and avoid carrying unnecessary items. If carrying a purse, hold it tightly and close to your body; if carrying a wallet or keys, keep them in your front pockets. Consider using a fanny pack instead of a purse.

If you are attacked, scream, blow a whistle or do anything to bring attention to your situation. Do not risk injury by fighting over items. It may be better to let them go.

On Light Rail

When waiting for light rail, stay in a central location that is occupied by other patrons. During off hours, ride in the first car as close to the operator as possible. If someone bothers you, move to another seat and notify the train operator.

Red emergency buttons are located above every other door and will alert the operator of an emergency. The operator will notify the light rail Control Center and an appropriate response will be sent. The operator will stop at the next station to determine the problem. Fare Inspection Officers, as well as Uniformed and plain clothes Police Officers, regularly ride the trains.

On Buses

Try to avoid isolated bus stops. Stand near others in well-lighted areas and move toward your bus as it arrives. Don't open your purse or wallet while boarding the bus. Have your pass or money already in your hand. During off hours, ride as near the bus driver as possible. If trouble occurs, notify the driver. The bus driver can radio Bus Dispatch, who can then notify Police.

Walking to your car

Walk briskly and confidently to your car. Have your keys out and ready before approaching your vehicle. Always check the interior and exterior of your vehicle for any possible intruders. If clear, quickly enter your vehicle and lock the doors behind you.

Every light rail station has a public telephone. "911" EMERGENCY calls can be made from these phones and do not require change.

Vehicle Security

Always lock car doors and close all windows when leaving your vehicle. Don't leave valuables visible in your car. Lock them in the trunk or take them with you. Consider installing a car alarm, ignition kill switch or some type of locking device for the steering wheel or brake pedal.

Inform Your Children

If your children ride Regional Transit, please advise them on how to handle themselves around strangers. Teach them how to contact the Police and RT employees for assistance and help.

Regional Transit Police Services

If you see something suspicious, report it to any RT employee or call the Police or sheriff. If you are the victim of a crime, report it to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

RT has adopted a Community Oriented Policing principles into its total crime prevention and crime fighting program. Our team consists of full-time Sacramento Police Officers, Sacramento Sheriff's Deputies, Supervisors, RT Train Operators and Bus Drivers, RT Fare Inspection Officers, uniformed Security Guards and most importantly YOU -- the RT rider. Working together we can all make a difference!

Referral Numbers

EMERGENCY CALL 911

FIRE, POLICE, MEDICAL CALL 911

© 2004 Caltrans.