Escalator safety

  • Hold on to a handrail.
  • Hold small children by the hand.
  • Use caution when stepping on or off escalators.
  • Avoid dangling shoelaces or other clothing that can get caught in the moving parts of an escalator.
  • In an emergency, the escalator can be stopped by pressing an emergency stop button at the top and bottom of each escalator.
  • If there is an emergency, advise a station attendant or Transit Police officer.

Before you ride

  1. Check for loose garments -- long dresses, scarves, mittens trench coats, loose belts and shopping bags.
  2. Make sure shoes are tied. Loose shoelaces often get caught in escalator machinery.
  3. Learn where the emergency shutoff buttons are, in case you need to stop the escalator. These buttons should be at the top and bottom of each escalator, on the right of the escalator when facing the stairs.
  4. If you are uncomfortable boarding or riding an escalator, use an elevator or stairs instead.
  5. Stand in the center of the steps. Avoid the edges.
  6. Don't lean against or over the sides.
  7. When exiting the elevator, step off promptly and keep walking. Other passengers may be behind you, so don't stop to talk or look around.

Children

  1. Children younger than the age of 7 should be accompanied by an adult. Always hold children firmly with one hand. Do not permit children to sit or play on the steps.
  2. Do not bring children onto escalators in strollers, walkers or carts.

Do not use the escalator:

  1. If you are carrying a large package,
  2. If you are pushing a baby stroller, baggage carts, hand trucks or shopping carts.
  3. If you are using a cane, a walker or on crutches.
  4. If it is not in motion. Escalator steps are not the correct height for normal walking, and the risk of tripping and falling is greatly increased.
  5. If you are barefoot.