See Something?

What to Look For

It can be difficult to know what “something suspicious” looks like – but trust yourself when something doesn’t feel quite right.

Suspicious Behavior

Race, gender or religious affiliations are not indicators of suspicious behavior. Look for signs of reconnaissance or equipment tampering. Don’t be afraid to report any of the following:

• Placing a package or luggage in a different compartment than the one being occupied.
• People who stay at bus stations for long periods without getting on.
• Anyone tampering with surveillance cameras, safety systems, machinery or other sensitive equipment.
• People videotaping, sketching or taking notes on transit equipment and facilities or security equipment.
• People entering unauthorized areas at bus stations.
• People carrying aerosol containers or anything omitting a strange smell or gas.
• Evasive answers to common questions regarding destinations; deliberate attempts to avoid contact with others or to draw attention.
• Loose fitting clothing, large sweatshirt, vest or jacket in hot weather conditions. Clothing that is disproportionate to the body type of the person.
• Attempts to abandon a vehicle in or near a transit parking facility, or cars in the parking lot without proper tags and license plates.
• An individual who is fixated only on a particular object or location.
• Suspicious activity or loitering around transportation facilities.
• Consecutive round trips on the same transit route.

If you Observe Suspicious Behavior

DO NOT take direct action
DO NOT confront the individual
DO NOT reveal your suspicions
DO record as many details as possible
DO notify appropriate authorities as soon as possible

Suspicious Objects

Unattended briefcases or bags may simply be forgotten or discarded items – but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Don’t be afraid to report any of the following:

• Bags, boxes or other packages left unattended on buses, in stations, on platforms or in the road—especially if partially hidden or in unusual locations.
• Exposed wiring, leaks, strange smells or other signs of potential tampering on buses and trains.
• Suspicious carry-on items such as large backpacks, gym bags and luggage weighing more than normal.

If you Observe Suspicious Behavior

DO NOT touch or move any suspicious objects
DO NOT use a cell phone or radio in the direct vicinity
DO evacuate the area to a safe distance
DO notify appropriate authorities as soon as possible