Safe: Not Sorry!

Jan 16, 2002 4:27 PM

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

•  When possible, use buses rather than subways. There are fewer violent crimes committed above ground because there are many more people around — and that means more witnesses.
•  When riding the subway outside of rush hours, try to stay in the car with the conductor. If you find yourself sitting in a sparsely populated car and a suspicious-looking person gets on, move to another car. Don't worry about hurting his feelings.
•  Be aware of your jewelry. Turn your rings so that the stones are facing inside and make sure your clothing covers any neck chains. Necklaces are easy prey for attackers. (More on jewelry later.)
•  Always put a token, your Metrocard or a couple of dollar bills in your pocket before leaving your home or workplace. Opening your purse or wallet at the subway change booth (or newsstand or deli) is an invitation to a purse snatcher.
•  Use green-lighted subway entrances whenever possible. New York City has installed coded lights at subway stations. Look for them before you enter. A red light means the station is only an exit and is not staffed. A yellow light means there is no token clerk on duty and the entrance to the station is probably through a token-operated enclosed turnstile. (You are more vulnerable here because you cannot back out of the turnstile if you see an unsavory character.) The green dome means the subway station is open and there is a clerk who can summon help if you need it.