Transcript
PERSONAL PREPAREDNESS: GET READY ON PUBLIC TRANSIT
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• • Emergencies can happen at anytime and anywhere, including while you are traveling on public transit. Should you become stranded, having some basic supplies on your person will provide some comfort and help keep you safe. Learn how to be a safe commuter without being weighed down. Your public transit survival kit should include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Extra cash to cover a taxi fare Light source such as a key chain flashlight Keychain compass Cellular phone (with GPS capability if possible) Portable radio (Usually included on many new cellular phones or MP3 players) Whistle to attract attention Face protection such as a small cloth or plain tshirt Tissues Portable sanitizer Band aids City map Energy bars Bottle of water Essential medication Identification documents Important phone numbers
If you ride public transit, plan alternate ways to get where you need to go in case something happens on your normal route. Don’t assume you will have access to public transit in an emergency. You might not. Make a plan for how you’ll get home or to safety before a disaster arises. When planning, keep these in points mind: • •
Identify other stations near your regular station. If your normal station is affected during an emergency, you may be able to use one nearby. Plan an alternate route from the nearest available public transit line in case the entire line you normally use is unavailable.
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Know your bus routes. If the GO train or subway is shut down, a bus may get you where you need to go. However, anticipate delays because of heavy traffic. Be prepared if all transit service becomes unusable. Keep a pair of comfortable walking shoes, a jacket and umbrella on hand if needed. Make arrangements in advance with a family member, friend, co-worker or fellow student who has a vehicle that may be able to help you in the event you get stranded. Always check the weather forecast, news and transit updates for any emergencies that may affect your commute.
If you get stuck or stranded on a public transit vehicle or train, don't panic. Wait for help to arrive. If you are in an area with cell phone service and have a cell phone, call for help. Remember to use caution when getting off a bus on a busy roadway. In a train emergency, never leave the train unless instructed to do so by transit officials or emergency responders or if there is immediate danger. Learn the importance of “shelter in place”. Unless you are in immediate danger, staying where you are and awaiting instructions from the proper authorities is usually best.
To obtain further information about personal preparedness please visit the York University Emergency Preparedness Program website through the following link: http://www.yorku.ca/epp/
