Tips for teens to stay safe on public transport

Catching the train, tram, or bus? It's a cool way to get around, but let’s chat about staying on the safe side. Here are some easy-to-follow tips.

1. Feel the beat but stay alert

Loving those beats on your latest noise-cancelling headphones or ear buds? Totally get it. Just keep it at a level where you’re still tuned into the world. With the volume too high, you might miss important stuff happening around you. Keep it low, stay alert.

2. Be smart about your seat

We know, sitting near the driver might not be the coolest move, but it’s a smart one. The middle carriages on trains are also good. They're usually busier – and more people around usually means less trouble. 

3. Guard your cool stuff

Your new Air Jordans, iPhone, Nintendo Switch, or Bose headphones – yeah, they’re awesome. And because they are, some might wanna swipe them. Just be smart about where and how you flaunt them. Keep it low-key, keep them hidden or hold them tight. Maybe save the flashiest gear for safer spots and outings.

4. Trust those vibes

Keep an eye out. If something feels off or someone's acting weird or making you feel uneasy, it’s not just in your head. Trust your gut – move seats or hop off and wait for the next ride. If some random is asking personal stuff. Don’t share. Dodge, divert or keep it vague. 

5. Buddy up

Heading out solo? Cool. But if you've got mates heading the same way, why not hang together? It's fun and safer.

6. Do some route retcon

Know where your heading, plan your stops, and check timings, so you don’t have to wait around. Maybe maybe even let a mate or your family know where you're off to. It's always smarter to be in the know.

7. Waiting it out

If it’s dark and you’re waiting for your ride, stick to well-lit spots. If you’re travelling solo, chill with others – there’s safety in numbers, plus more people to chat with. A broken light at your stop? Maybe try the next one. And scan the scene; notice what’s happening around you. 

8. Power up

A charged phone can be a game-changer. It can be your lifeline if things get dicey and you need to call for help or a shoot someone a message. Keep it powered.

9. Deal with drama makers

Every now and then other young people might try and push you around. Don't bite back. Don’t give them the satisfaction. Keep it cool, move away, or alert someone. 

10. Help is a button away

All Victoria's trains have a nifty emergency button. If you’re really in trouble or feel unsafe, don't hesitate to press it. If you’re at a station, tell staff or a PSO. If you’re on a bus or tram, tell the driver. If you’re in danger or it’s an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) straight away. 

3 top tips for parents

If your kids are travelling independently on public transport, here’s 3 tips to give you some extra peace of mind about their safety.

1. Use location-tracking services: Set your child’s phone to share its location. Try Family Location Sharing or Find My Friends app. 
2. Use automatic top-ups:  Ensure they’re never caught out with an expired or zero-balance Myki card by using “Myki Auto Top Up”.
3. Use portable chargers: Make sure they carry a slim portable charge or power-bank, so if their phone battery dies, they still have a way to call or message. Also make sure they have your phone number memorised in case they lose their phone.