Crime Prevention Tips
Personal Safety
- If you ever require assistance while riding the system, contact a uniformed PATCO employee for help.
- Red “Call for Aid” or emergency phones are located at the turnstiles of every PATCO station. They are also located on some station platforms, just pick up the phone and dial “0”.
- If no Emergency Phone is available, dial "911" on any payphone or cell phone.
- Always be alert and aware of the people around you. Never sleep on the train.
- Walk briskly and confidently to your destination.
- Avoid talking to strangers — especially when in isolated areas.
- Hold your purse tightly, close to your body. Keep your wallet in a front pocket.
- Always keep your jewelry and other valuables out of sight. Turn rings so that precious stones are on the palm side of your hand.
- If you are the victim of a street crime, yell or scream but do not risk injury by fighting with or chasing your attacker.
- Consider carrying a whistle or any type of noisemaker. If you’re in trouble, use it!
Auto Safety
If you are using one of our many Park-N-Ride lots, keep these precautions in mind:
- Always lock your car and close the windows after entering or leaving your car.
- Have your keys ready and check the back seat before opening the door.
- If you have car trouble in a PATCO parking lot, contact the Transit Police. Help will be sent. Do not entrust your life and safety to a stranger.
Help prevent auto theft
Every 20 seconds, a car is stolen in the United States. Don't be a victim. To help prevent the theft of your automobile, remember these tips:
- Park in busy, lighted areas.
- Lock your car and take your keys. Don’t hide a spare key in the vehicle.
- Layer your use of anti-theft devices:
- Alarms
- Steering wheel locks
- Window etching
- Take valuables with you or lock them in the trunk of your car.
- Do not keep license, registration or title in your car. If left in the car, thieves can use these documents to sell your car if stolen, or to impersonate you when they are challenged by police. Owners who indiscriminately leave keys, registrations and other identifiable material in their vehicles may return to their residence only to find that they are the victims of a burglary.
- Have your car key ready as you approach your car.
- Be aware of persons near you, especially at night.
Don’t Become a Victim of a Carjacking
Think defensively, and be aware of your surroundings.
- Look around and inside the vehicle before you get in.
- Lock the doors as soon as you get in your vehicle.
- Keep the doors locked and the windows rolled up.
- Never leave the keys in the vehicle, even when loading packages.
- If confronted by an armed carjacker, don’t resist.
Help put Pickpockets out of Business
Don't let your daily routine lull you into giving pickpockets a better chance to do their dirty work. Here are some tips on how to protect yourself from pickpockets:
- Stay awake. A pickpocket's easiest victim is a sleeping passenger. If you feel drowsy, it's best to get up and stand.
- Stay alert. Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.
- Beware of loud arguments or commotion. Incidents can be staged to distract while a pocket is being picked.
- Backpacks are prime targets for pickpockets. Never wear your backpack on your back. Either carry it in your hands or by your side.
- Carry wallets inside coat or front pants pocket - never in a backpack or rear trouser pocket. TIP: Place a rubber band around your wallet to feel resistance when it is removed from your pocket.
- Use a purse with a secure clasp. Keep the purse close to your body and your hand on the clasp.
- Avoid displaying large amounts of money in public. Use the new PATCO Freedom Card.
- Avoid standing near train car doors to lessen your chance of being crowded or bumped by others. If you’re jostled in a crowd, a pickpocket might be responsible.
- If your pocket is picked, yell out immediately to warn others. Don’t be afraid to shout. Tell the train operator, and request the police.
Protect Your Electronic Device
- Carry your electronic device in a pocket or a place where it is not easily seen or in easy reach of others.
- Be smart about when and where you use your electronic device.
- Change the color of your earpiece so that it does not readily suggest you carry an expensive electronic device.
Street Persons
- Like most major cities, Philadelphia and Camden have a street population. Some may be homeless; others may be vagrants or panhandlers.
- Most street people are harmless; however, a few are chronic law violators who may infringe upon the rights of others. Demonstrate a combination of respect and caution around panhandlers and strangers.
- Contributing money to people on the street will not necessarily help solve the problem of homelessness or vagrancy. In fact, it may encourage more panhandling. If you feel inclined to assist the homeless, it is suggested that contributions be given to one of the many local charities, missions, food banks or social service organizations that assist those in need.
