Translink launch sport themed 'Safety First' campaign

Translink is urging 'Safety First ' while using public transport this summer.

A ‘Play It Safe’ campaign, in partnership with the Irish FA and Ulster GAA, has been launched to promote safe and responsible behaviour on and around public transport.

The ‘Play it Safe’ campaign uses a sporting theme to highlight important issues like treating everyone with respect, staying alert, avoiding risks, anti-social behaviour consequences and following safety advice so that everyone can enjoy safe and comfortable journeys. 

Translink is also emphasising the real dangers of trespassing on tracks or using the railway as a shortcut. People who use railway crossings are also reminded to be vigilant at all times, pay attention to warning lights and signs and not to get complacent.

Translink’s Director of Service Operations Ian Campbell said: “Our services play a vital role in keeping everyone connected to family, friends, work, leisure and essential services. We ask everyone to ‘Play It Safe’ when it comes to using public transport this summer so we can keep services operating and get people where they need to be safely.

“We would encourage parents to know where their children are and ensure that they are not engaging in unsafe or anti-social behaviour on the bus and rail networks.

“We are also highlighting key safety facts like how quiet trains are at speed and how they may not always be heard until they are just metres away.

“Similarly, our zero emission buses and Glider services are relatively quiet so it’s important to stay vigilant when crossing the road. We’d also remind customers that headphones and mobile phones can cause distraction when climbing stairs, escalators or getting on and off services so please be careful.

“Safety is always our top priority and our vehicles and stations are fitted with CCTV for everyone’s safety and comfort with train conductors and our Glider and Metro inspectors also using body worn cameras. There are serious implications for those caught engaging in dangerous or anti-social behaviour including criminal convictions, which can have long term consequences.

“We offer a reward of up to £1,000 for those who give evidence of trespass, vandalism or anti-social behaviour, which leads to a successful conviction.  

“We look forward to welcoming our customers on board our services this summer and hope they enjoy all the benefits of travelling on public transport.” 

For more information on Translink’s Play It Safe Campaign follow @Translink_NI #PlayItSafeNI and visit www.translink.co.uk.