Whether you take the subway, tube, or the metro, these rail systems can be convenient and quick ways to head from one spot to another. If you are unfamiliar with these rail systems, they can be very intimidating and can cause worry or concern. Luckily, we have some subway safety tips to help you become more comfortable with the idea of riding the rails!
Before You Ride
- Learn the routes you will need to take to get to certain destinations
- The rail system is a lot less intimidating when you are not trying to figure out stations on the fly!
- Do your research on the platforms and stations
- Some platforms or stations hold unwanted surprises – so we recommend only riding during the day or doing research on which platforms to avoid
- For example, in the LA Metro, the 7th and Metro station is notorious for being crime ridden and many locals avoid it at all costs
- Learn to carry self protection
- For those travelling in the United States, we recommend:
- The Little Ringer and Scrunch Key – a stun device with a disable pin and key ring feature for easy carry on the Scrunch Key disable pin bracelet
- Sock it Slim – powerful striking tool for unwanted close contact
- For those travelling abroad, we recommend:
- Barbara Self Defense Ring – a wearable hidden barb gives you piece of mind in the event of sudden close contact
- Silent Signal – discrete & powerful, this GPS tool lets you alert your 5 closest contacts of danger that is present so they can get to you or get help to you quickly
- Written Off Tactical Pen – a disguised striking tool for unwanted close contact
- If travelling, invest in a Metro-card, Oyster card, or an equivalent. This will make sure that your check-in process is smooth and you don’t need to take your credit or debit card out of your RFID protected Slim Shelly.
During Your Ride
- Choose a solid car
- It is recommended to choose a car with more than two people if possible. A car with multiple people is also preferred over a car in which you are solo
- It is also recommended to pick the car with the conductor or one close by. Try to not choose cars at the very beginning or very end especially at night
- Sit responsibly
- Try to pick seats away from the doors towards the middle to avoid “snatch and grab” crimes
- Don’t acknowledge or respond to verbal harassment
- Avoid eye contact with persons acting erratic
- Be mindful of your belongings
- We recommend concealing large rings and expensive jewelry
- Keep large backpacks and bags in your view
Remember to also keep alert and have good Situational Awareness! The best protection is prevention. For discounts and more information on the products above, reach out to your local Damsel Safety Educator here.
