8 Ways to Stay Safe While Taking Public Transportation
Added on August 1st, 2017
As we age, it may become more difficult to drive our cars around town. This can be inconvenient for a lot of seniors, as they make regular doctor visits, try and remain active in the community, and continuing day-to-day tasks like shopping or eating out at restaurants.
Public transportation, such as buses and taxis, can be a great alternative to driving, but they carry with them their own risks. As a senior, it’s important to remain vigilant while riding on public transit. Here are some helpful tips the next time you decide to take the bus or call a cab.
- Watch Out for Bumpy Pavement
When walking from your home to the bus stop, it’s a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. Earthquakes and tree roots can cause pavement to become broken or uneven over the years. As you are walking, keep a close eye on the sidewalk in front of you to avoid potential obstacles that could cause you to trip or fall.
If it’s needed, bring along a walker or cane to help you retain your balance. Also, be mindful of your step if it has rained recently as the pavement may be slippery. If there is inclement weather, it may be best to avoid going into town at all and spend the day in the comfort of your home. Barring emergencies, of course.
- Stay Alert
If you decide to take the bus, take care to mind the people around you. Others may not be aware of your presence and could potentially bump into you unwittingly. It is also not recommended to take a nap while riding public transportation. Some unscrupulous characters may be taking the bus at the same time you are and may have an eye on your purse or wallet.
Additionally, you want to be vigilant in case the bus ride is particularly bumpy. Buses are known to occasionally make sudden turns or stops. Be prepared to brace yourself accordingly. If possible, stay awake and be aware of your surroundings always to guarantee safe travel to your destination.
- Avoid Riding Public Transportation at Night
Riding the bus at night is generally not recommended for a few reasons. There is likely to be more dangerous individuals at night, and it can be harder for people to see when walking back home. If you need to go somewhere during the evening, then it may be better to call a taxi rather than taking the bus. The only person you are sharing a vehicle with is the cab driver, so you will feel a lot safer.
Regardless of which method of transportation you pick, it’s good practice to bring a flashlight with you if you are going out at night. There are many small flashlights available on the market you can effortlessly put in a pocket, backpack or fanny pack on your next night out. A flashlight will help you see when you exit the vehicle and walk to your destination.
- Have Fare Ready to Go
When riding the bus, you’ll generally be required to pay a fare. Plan ahead and have a good idea of how much you need to pay and be prepared to have your money readily accessible in your pockets or wallet. It is not unheard of for bus drivers to put the vehicle into motion when people are still standing trying to pay their fare.
Don’t put yourself in any danger by losing balance when the bus begins to move again. Have your fare ready to go so that you can pay and sit down as quickly as possible.
- Have One Hand Free
Travel light when taking public transportation. If you need to carry packages or other items with you, ensure you have one hand free at all times. This will allow you to grasp onto rails to maintain your balance should the ride get bumpy.
- Carry an Emergency Alert Device
Hopefully, you never have to deal with any unpleasantness while riding the bus. However, thefts are known to happen on public transit. If someone ever steals something that belongs to you, then it can be helpful to carry an emergency alert device.
Many of these devices emit a powerful noise that alerts everyone in your vicinity. Be prepared should a confrontation occur and have a plan just in case
- Move If You Feel Uncomfortable
If for whatever reason you feel uncomfortable or uneasy while riding the bus, don’t be afraid to move to another seat. In the event you no longer want to be on the bus at all, you should absolutely get off at the next stop even if it is not your destination.
You can always contact a taxi service at this point to take you the rest of the way. For this very reason, having a cell phone on your person when away from your house is immensely important You then have the option to call a friend or family member to inform them of where you are and what happened.
- Find a Senior Mobility Service Near You
If you prefer not to deal with buses and taxis, you can always find a specialized service that helps you get around town. Some cities offer shuttles that pick-up seniors directly at their homes and take them to designated locations. This is can be an excellent option because you know you will only be traveling with other seniors and qualified assistants.
While it is important to be able to safely get around the city, it’s equally important to be able to move around your own house safely. Easy Climber’s selection of Stair Lifts and Home Elevators help seniors like you create a safer and more fulfilling standard of living.