Tips for Children

• Street Safety for Children
• Traveling to and from School
• Bus, Subway and Taxi Safety for Children
• At Home Safety for Children

Bus, Subway and Taxi Safety for Children

• Carry coins or a spare MetroCard that can be used for buses or subways in case you lose your pass.

• Avoid isolated bus stops when waiting for a bus. Stand in front of a store rather than in bus shelters.

• On a subway platform, wait near the fare booth or the designated off-hours waiting area until the train comes. Do not lean over the edge looking for the train. Ride in a car with the conductor (usually at the center of the train).

• When in transit, remember to avoid eye contact with strangers. When addressed by a stranger move away. If you are sitting, stand up. It is easier to move away from a stranger when you are standing.

• Whenever you get into a taxi alone, have at least $5.00 in your hand as “escape money.” Use this immediately if the driver makes you uncomfortable and you want to get out. Give it to him while exiting quickly when the taxi stops at a light. Always exit at the curb, never in the middle of a street. Walk in the opposite direction from the cab.

• If you are being picked up by a car service, don't get into an unmarked car. Always ask the driver the name of the person he is picking up rather than assuming the car is for you. All licensed services display a number and their company name.