🛡 Safer together: Transit safety at large events 🚆

Keeping it fun in the sun

Festival season is coming up and we’re just as excited as you are to take in some good music and entertainment under the sun.

Events where thousands of people gather at one site, like Canada Day or Bluesfest, are the highlight of many Ottawa summers. But large crowds also come with risks when it comes to transit. In this edition of The Next Stop Blog, let’s go over a few reminders on how we can work together to make every summer celebration a safety success.

🛡Getting to the site safely

When taking transit to a festival or event, you’re likely to encounter crowds along the way. Plan your trip in advance by using the Travel Planner on octranspo.com, or use the Transit app. Depending on the event, special transit instructions may be posted on octranspo.com in advance.

Give yourself extra time to arrive so that you won’t feel rushed to get there before your favourite act takes the stage. Accidents are more likely to happen when we’re stressed out and racing the clock.

Generally, large events have a dedicated flow for attendees to make sure that crowds keep moving and that no one gets stuck along the way. Crowd management plans are developed with expert input and consider an event’s forecasted attendance, past observations, and detailed schedules to anticipate how the crowd flow will change at different times during the event. The goal is a safe and streamlined journey, where everyone spends less time lost in the shuffle and more time enjoying the party.

Crowd flow directions are indicated in a variety of ways depending on where you are. Listen for audio announcements in vehicles or on station platforms and look out for signage around stations and at event sites for direction on where to board and exit.

While some roads around the event site might be temporarily closed, steer clear of lanes in use by transit vehicles or general traffic. Road closures can vary by date or time—always look before crossing.

🛡Getting home safely

After the final encore, crowds will be eager to catch the first bus or train leaving the site. You’ll likely need to line up to access stations or buses at nearby stops. Lineups can be used for crowd control to limit the number of people inside stations and avoid overcrowding. Build this into your plan and know what to expect to avoid the stress of an unexpected wait.

You may need to line up based on your direction and mode of travel. For example, people travelling westbound by bus may be guided to a different line than people travelling eastbound by train. Check the signage carefully to make sure you’re in the right lane!

Station safety tips

• Slow down and walk on stairs or O-Train platforms, especially when they are crowded. Another train will come shortly—no need to rush!
• Always stay clear of the yellow platform edge, even if the platform is busy.
• Emergency phones are located on every platform if you need help. Press the button to be connected directly to the Special Constable Unit. Or, call SCU at 613-741-2478.

🛡OC Transpo staff are here to help

At most large events, like Canada Day and Bluesfest, Special Constables and OC Transpo staff are posted at key locations during the busiest travel times. Their job is to monitor crowds, provide directions and respond to any issues.

If you are lost, confused, or need help, you can always ask OC Transpo employees for assistance.

Transit safety at major events is a top priority for OC Transpo, and you can help by working some simple steps into your summer fun.

Plan ahead and allow lots of time. Keep an eye and ear out for signage and announcements, and reach out to staff if you need help.

More information about safety on transit is available on our Safe Travels page. By looking out for each other, we can make this summer a great one!