Travel Safety : Taxi & Pedestrian Safety Tips

Concern for your safety extends to business travel. In keeping with our ongoing commitment to provide you with a safe work environment away from the office, please take the time to review the following travel safety tips. If you have any concerns or questions about safe travel, consult your manager or Human Resources.

Taxi Safety Tips

  • If travelling by taxi, beware in advance which companies are reputable.
  • While entering the taxi, take note of any documentation posted in the cab regarding the taxi company phone number and the identification of the driver.
  • Always sit in the back of the taxi behind the driver, well out of reach.
  • Ensure that the rear door locks and handles are operational from inside the cab.
  • Never share a taxi ride with a stranger, for any reason.
  • When being picked up from your home, do not discuss details of your travel plans with the taxi driver, or tell them that your house will be empty while you are away.
Taxi Safety Tips

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Pedestrian Safety Tips

  • Pedestrian SafetyWhether travelling in North America or abroad know your destination, plan your route, carry a map and be familiar as possible with the area in which you are walking.
  • Have on your possession local emergency numbers, ensuring that you have them program on your cell phone speed dial.
  • Ensure that the battery of your cell phone is fully charged and readily available (not in your purse, brief case or luggage).
  • While en route to your destination, remain observant of your surroundings.
  • When travelling back and forth from your place of business, take a taxi or request a ride with a colleague, particularly if the area is considered unsafe, or it is after dark.
  • When walking, wear comfortable, flat shoes. If you are required to wear more formal footwear like heels, etc., take them with you and change once at your destination.
  • Walk only on well light streets, in the centre of the sidewalk away from potential hiding spots such as doorways, bushes, allies and parked cars. If this is not possible or you are uncomfortable, cross the street.
  • Appearing confident is an asset. Keep your head up and remain observant of others without staring.
  • If you suspect that you are being followed, walk quickly to a safe place, without running or looking back. This might include a restaurant, reputable business such as a bank or government office. Call 911 or your designated emergency number for assistance. DO NOT return to your car or house as this may jeopardize your security if you are being observed.
  • If you are approached by a stranger for any reason, simply respond “no thank you” in a firm voice and keep moving.
  • If you encounter a group of people, take a wide berth around them rather than through the group. It is common for shoplifting to occur while in a crowd.
  • Do not appear lost by obviously referring to a map.
  • Be responsive to your surroundings Do not wear earphones, carry heavy luggage/briefcases
  • Do not carry any type of weapon, including pepper spray. Weapons and self protection devices can easily be used against you, and are illegal in some jurisdictions. Carry a personal safety alarm which can be purchased in a many travel stores.
  • If someone presents themselves as an official, politely ask to see their identification.
  • Secure packages by carrying them under your arm or with straps across your body.
  • When entering your place of business enter from the front or main entrance, rather than a rear or side entrance.
  • Use crowds as camouflage. Stand among a group when waiting for a taxi, bus or train.
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