5 Habits to Stay Safe on Public Transit
Public transit is a lifeline for many communities. It’s convenient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly—but it can also leave us feeling vulnerable. Incidents like the recent fatal stabbing on Charlotte’s light rail highlight what many of us already know: safety on public transit isn’t something to take for granted.
Being harder to harm begins with habits, not hands. Here are five that can help you ride more safely, wherever you are.
1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
The easiest trap to fall into is distraction. Headphones, texting, or zoning out can make you less aware of what’s happening around you—and more likely to be targeted. Keep one earbud out, glance up regularly, and position yourself where you can see who’s entering and exiting. Awareness is your first line of defense.
2. Choose Your Space Wisely
Whenever possible, ride in busier cars or sit closer to the driver or conductor. Well-lit areas—especially near exits—reduce the chances of being isolated. If a train car or bus feels uncomfortable, change cars or seats before it becomes a problem.
3. Trust Your Gut—and Move
If someone’s behavior sets off alarms, don’t dismiss it. Move seats, change cars, or exit at the next stop if needed. Your intuition exists for a reason. Removing yourself from a potentially risky situation early is always better than hoping it resolves itself.
4. Keep Essentials Accessible
Don’t bury your phone, ID, or transit card at the bottom of a bag. Keep them in a pocket or spot you can reach quickly. This minimizes fumbling if you need to exit in a hurry and makes you less of a target for theft.
5. Have a Response Plan
Preparation reduces panic. Think through simple “if/then” scenarios:
- If someone grabs me, then I’ll make noise and head toward others.
- If I feel trapped, then I’ll move toward the operator’s area or the exit.
- If I need help, then I’ll call 911 immediately.
A plan doesn’t guarantee safety, but it puts you in a better position to respond decisively.
Final Thought
Public transit should be safe for everyone, but until systemic improvements are made, your personal habits matter. You don’t need to live in fear—but you should ride with awareness and a plan. These five habits won’t just keep you safer; they’ll give you peace of mind every time you step on board.
Want more practical strategies for everyday safety? My new books, THE inCOMPLETE GUIDE TO MODERN KRAV MAGA™, and COLLEGE BOUND are now available for pre-order.
The Incomplete Guide to Modern Krav Maga™: A Manual for Real-World Self-Defense
College Bound: How to Be Ready, Stay Safe, and Still Live Your Life.
About the Author
Ryan Hoover is the owner of Fit to Fight® Gastonia and Fit to Fight® Charlotte. He is also the founder of the Fit to Fight® affiliate organization. He holds a 2nd degree black belt in Krav Maga and is a black belt in BJJ. He has co-author of three books on Krav Maga and is recognized by the state of North Carolina as a Subject Matter Expert in addition to playing a critical role in developing defensive tactics and training curricula for law enforcement at the state level.