BC Transit has launched the Safety Code to ensure all transit staff and passengers are aware of their responsibilities when riding the bus. The Code intends to create a unified standard for respectful and inclusive transit environments.
Be Courteous and Calm
Show respect to passengers, transit staff and property.
Speak Up
If you see or experience an act that makes you feel uneasy, speak to your driver.
The bus is a safe place. Everyone deserves a safe and comfortable ride. Honour the equality, diversity and rights of all transit staff and passengers.
Safety Guide
If you see or experience an act that makes yourself or another passenger feel unsafe:
1. Create distance from the situation.
2. Speak to the driver immediately and sit nearby. If the situation is an emergency, call 911.
3. Follow the driver’s instructions until help has arrived.
4. Be observant so that you can be a helpful witness.
Tips to Keep You Safe on Your Journey
Safety is our first priority at BC Transit. We have been moving people safely in BC communities for over 100 years. BC Transit’s extensive safety program includes regulations and practical tips to keep you and BC Transit employees safe.
The driver is there to help.
Transit drivers can contact emergency services if needed.
Transit drivers are also trained to assist a child or adult in need.
Inform the transit driver if you need extra time to get to the first available seat.
You may have questions for your driver about transit service. Please do not distract the driver while the bus is in motion.
Wait on the sidewalk by the bus stop sign.
Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and the door fully opens before boarding.
Never run after or hit the bus when it is moving.
Do not walk in front of the bus to cross the street as there may be vehicles passing that will not be able to see you.
Listen for the alarm signaling the ramp is being deployed before entering the bus.
In extreme weather conditions, please check with your local transit website to verify that service is operating, particularly on routes that may have steep or mountainous sections.
If you witness an incident or accident, please leave your contact information with the driver prior to leaving the bus.
Customers may board only at designated bus stops.
Be safe and be seen. Wear light-coloured clothing or a reflective strip, use a flashlight or the light from your mobile phone to signal the driver that you are at the stop.
Be cautious when stepping onto the curb or street.
Rain, ice and snow present challenges in our bus zones. Take extra precautions when entering and exiting the bus. Due to road conditions, buses may not be able to pull close to the curb.
Always use handrails and stanchions.
When the bus is crowded, move to the back of the bus to avoid blocking the driver’s view.
Do not stand in the doorways to ensure your safety and customers can quickly enter and exit the bus.
Keep personal items under your control at all times.
Please note: The transit driver may turn some interior lights off when the bus is in motion to ensure the driver’s visibility.
Ensure that stroller wheels are locked and that you hold onto the handles.
Learn about bus education and safety for children at BC Transit’s BusReady website.
Always be alert.
Be aware of your surroundings and those around you.
Plan your journey in advance. Know where you are going and which bus you need.
Check the bus schedule to know when the last scheduled bus is in service.
Have your Umo payment method, exact cash or other fare products ready in your hand so that your purse or wallet is out of sight.
Keep your bag zipped and your valuables secure.
If you feel concerned about your safety on the bus, sit near the front or inform the driver.
BC Transit has installed closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras on buses across the province. The CCTV cameras deter inappropriate behavior on buses and provide another tool for investigation if an incident occurs.
The installation of the CCTV cameras followed a proof-of-concept period in Victoria and Kamloops in 2015-16 that showed the cameras provide a positive benefit to enhance security and safety. This includes securing evidence that leads to more successful security investigations.
