Metro Introduces New Safety Preparedness Videos

March 26, 2015

Metro on March 26 unveiled new safety preparedness videos to show riders what they should do in the event of an emergency involving smoke or fire on a train or in a station. 

The 60-second videos, available in English and Spanish, will be aired on local television stations as Public Service Announcements. In addition, Metro has purchased paid advertising time to maximize awareness. The ads will begin airing next week. 

"We encourage all of our customers to take a moment to review the new video," said Metro Interim General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Jack Requa. "We will continue to take steps to improve safety and emergency preparedness for our riders in the weeks and months ahead."

The English-version video features Metro Transit Police Detective Erin Cooper. In the wake of the Jan. 12 incident, customers indicated that they wanted additional information about what to do in an emergency and that they trust Metro Transit Police to deliver that message. 

The three-minute version, intended for online presentation on wmata.com and social media, features an introduction from MTPD Chief Ron Pavlik and Prince George's County Fire & Rescue Chief Marc Bashoor. Chief Bashoor also serves as the Chair of the Council of Governments Fire Chiefs Committee.

Among the topics covered in the video:

  • When and how to evacuate
  • Third-rail familiarization and safety guidance
  • How to use on-board intercoms
  • Location and use of emergency exits
  • Location of emergency signage