SkyTrain just got a little safer with the introduction of text messaging to alert security when problems occur on the line.
Passengers can now send texts to a security dispatcher (at 87-77-77) if they see a problem in addition to pressing the yellow strip above windows that triggers a silent alarm.
While the yellow strip is a good idea, and has been used for a long time to summon one of 200 Transit Police or other personnel, texting is much more discreet and won't draw attention as much as some people fear.
Already, the force has reported that it has received numerous texts with good tips, particularly ones related to sexual offences, which is good news for women traveling alone on SkyTrain.
If we are going to encourage more people to take transit, we must assure them that they are in a secure environment.
