Safe travels
Quick safety tips
- Be aware of your surroundings
Avoid distractions like texting or listening to loud music. - Keep a safe distance
Stay well back from the platform or curb edge. - Never touch a transit vehicle
- Cross safely
Only cross the bus roadway at stations by using a designated crosswalk.
Safety features
Transit stations and vehicles are busy places. All our stations and vehicles are designed with your safety in mind. Familiarize yourself with the safety features available to you across the transit system to make your ride a smooth one.
Safety features
O-Train
O-Train vehicles are designed for your safety and security:
The passenger intercom provides direct communication with the operator. Activate it to alert the operator of a problem.
Bilingual next stop announcements and electronic signs keep you informed of the train’s location and let you know when your stop is coming up.
Yellow grab bars and hanging straps are available to hold on to if you are standing.
All trains have emergency exits (roof hatch and window emergency escapes). In case of an emergency, follow the operator’s instructions on the safest way to exit.
Safety features
O-Train stations
O-Train stations have additional safety features to keep you safe while you wait:
- Major O-Train stations are monitored by CCTV.
- Transecure area on each platform: brighter lighting, emergency call box, seating. They may have overhead heating you can activate in cold weather.
- Lyon, Parliament and Rideau Stations have public access defibrillators.
- Tactile yellow strip and inter-car barriers mark the platform edge. Always stay behind the yellow platform edge!
- Free wi-fi is available at most stations.
After 7 pm, ask the bus operator for Safe Stop. They can let you off at a safe spot along the route closer to your destination.
Safety features
Bus stations
Transitway and major bus stations have additional safety features to keep you safe while you wait:
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Transitway stations are monitored by CCTV.
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Major stations have a Night Stop indicated by a yellow Transecure logo. This area is centrally located, well lit, and close to emergency callboxes or payphones. After 9 pm, all routes service the Night Stop.
Safety features
Bus shelters
A bus shelter is a covered waiting area near the bus stop sign. We maintain about 1,400 shelters across the network.
What to do while you wait
Our goal is to make boarding easy and predictable. When your bus approaches, signal early so the driver knows you want to board. Clear signals include:
- Leaving the shelter and moving toward the bus flag
- Giving a small wave to the driver
- Having your fare or pass in hand
Bus drivers are trained to:
- Slow down at every stop and scan sidewalks, shelters, and the area around the bus stop
- Watch for clear signals from customers and be prepared to serve the stop
- Support customers with disabilities
There’s no single “right” moment to signal—earlier is better. Signalling helps ensure a safe, predictable stop for everyone.
Safety features
Para Transpo section on this page
All Para Transpo minibuses are equipped with safety features:
- Emergency exit doors are located at the rear of the vehicle, and an exit hatch is on the roof.
- A first aid kit and fire extinguisher are readily accessible to the operator.
- Rear-view mirrors for the operator to monitor the passenger area.
- Seatbelts for passengers who don’t use mobility devices, and securement belts for passengers using mobility devices.
- Guards on the sides of the ramp to prevent customers from rolling off unintentionally.
- Triangle reflectors that can be used by the operator to alert other drivers in case of an emergency.
See something, say something
Who to call
- Be aware of your surroundings when using transit. If you see something unusual, let us know.
If you are in an emergency, call 911. - Special Constables
Special Constables patrol the transit system 24/7. If you need help, feel unsafe, or witness a crime, flag a Special Constable on duty or call 613-741-2478Special Constables are sworn Peace Officers. Their authority is limited to incidents on or related to OC Transpo property.
Travel tips
From planning your trip to arriving at your destination, our tips help you travel safely.
Learn More about Travel tipsRiding at night
Travel safely at night with our Safe Stop program and by reporting unsafe situations.
Learn More about Riding at nightRiding with kids
Tips for travelling safely with children and preparing children to travel on their own.
Learn More about Riding with kids