A reminder from Septa this holiday season: Beware of Holiday Grinches!
Tis the season for pickpockets and purse snatchers and Septa police are warning riders to be extra cautious.
They say pick pocketing increases during the holiday season because of increased crowds, and also because thieves know that people may have extra cash. There have been 56 reported pickpocket incidents and 21 purse snatches on septa property this year.
Septa officers will be out at stops along the Market-Frankford and Broad Street lines handing out safety pamphlets to riders. Their number one safety travel tip is “don’t flash your cash."
Other tips include:
- Have your fare ready in the form of a Septa token or "TransPass" and keep it in a different location than in your wallet.
- Be alert while waiting for your bus, train or trolley.
- Don’t keep your wallet in your back pants pocket.
- Don’t carry a long-strap purse over your shoulder; if possible, wear it under your coat.
- Avoid overloading yourself with package and bags.
- Keep your purse, shopping bag, backpack, packages, etc., in your lap, on your arm, or between your feet -- not by themselves on an empty seat.
- Beware of strangers approaching you or trying to distract you.
- Keep keys readily available in your pockets to prevent fumbling when you arrive at your car or home.
