Riding LA Metro Safely During the 2028 Olympics: What to Know

LA Metro is Generally Safe for Visitors

LA Metro carries millions of riders annually across the system. During the 2028 Olympics, Metro will have enhanced security, additional staff, and volunteer guides throughout stations and trains. The vast majority of visitors will have a positive transit experience.

That said, like any major public transportation system, using common sense and awareness helps ensure you have the safest possible ride. This guide covers practical safety tips for first-time riders and Olympic visitors.

General Safety Practices on the Train

Ride in the Middle Cars

When boarding a Metro rail train, try to ride in the middle or second-to-last car (not the very end). Middle cars have more passengers and staff visibility, making them statistically safer during peak hours.

Stay Alert to Your Surroundings

Just like in any public space:

• Keep headphones at a reasonable volume so you can hear announcements and your surroundings
• Be aware of people around you and trust your instincts
• Avoid displaying expensive phones, cameras, jewelry, or large amounts of cash
• Keep your bag in front of you or securely fastened
• Sit in well-lit areas near the center of the car

Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Like any major city, petty theft can occur. Protect yourself by:

• Keeping your TAP card and ID in an inside pocket or secure pouch
• Not flashing expensive phones, cameras, or jewelry
• Keeping your backpack or bag zipped and in front of you
• Using a crossbody bag rather than a backpack if possible
• Distributing cash between pockets rather than carrying it all in one place

Traveling Alone on LA Metro

Many Olympic visitors will travel solo to reach venues. This is safe, especially during the day and during peak hours when the trains and stations are busier:

• Travel during daylight and peak hours when possible (7 AM–8 PM)
• Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to arrive
• Keep your phone charged and have downloaded the LA Metro app for navigation
• Stand near the train conductor or in well-lit areas of the platform
• If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and move to a different car or station area
• Download offline maps of the Metro system so you don't have to look lost

Late-Night Transit During the Olympics

The 2028 Olympics will feature evening and night events. LA Metro will extend service hours for major games. Here's how to stay safe riding late:

Plan Your Route in Advance

Before heading to an evening event:

• Check the LA Metro website or app for the last train departure time from your venue station
• Plan your route home before you leave your hotel or starting point
• Know which station you need to exit at
• Confirm any service changes or special Olympic schedules

Ride with Others When Possible

For late-night rides (after 9 PM), try to travel with friends or fellow Olympic attendees rather than alone. Trains will still be busy with event traffic, but staying in groups is inherently safer.

Use the Conductor's Car

On Metro rail lines, the conductor (operator) sits in the front or back car depending on the line. Riding in the conductor's car can be a safer choice for late-night travel since staff is present.

At Metro Stations — Safety Tips

Use Well-Lit Platforms

All modern Metro stations are well-lit, but when waiting for a train:

• Stand in well-lit areas on the platform, not in corners or alcoves
• Stand near other passengers, especially during quieter times
• Stay away from the platform edge until the train arrives

Be Aware of Escalator and Elevator Safety

Some Metro stations have escalators and elevators to reach platforms. For safety:

• Use escalators facing forward with secure footing
• If using elevators, stand away from the door and stay alert
• Don't block doors or lean against them
• If an elevator seems unsafe, take the escalator or stairs

Traveling with Children on LA Metro

If you're bringing kids to Olympic events, Metro is safe for families. Here's how to keep children secure:

• Hold hands with young children or keep them within arm's reach at all times
• Teach children how to use the TAP card system before the trip
• Have a clear meeting plan if you get separated (meet at a specific station, contact parents/guardians)
• Ensure children know their destination and can identify Metro staff to ask for help if needed
• Bring a charged phone so kids can contact you if separated
• Avoid crowded peak times if traveling with very young children

Accessibility and Safe Travel for Mobility-Impaired Riders

LA Metro is fully ADA-compliant with modern accessibility features:

• All stations have elevators, not just escalators
• Trains have designated wheelchair and mobility device spaces
• Station staff can assist with accessibility needs — don't hesitate to ask
• Tactile warnings and braille signage help guide visually impaired riders
• Call LA Metro at (323) 922-2000 for assistance with special needs or questions

What to Do If You Feel Unsafe on the Train

If you feel unsafe or encounter problematic behavior:

• Move to another car: Discreetly move to a different train car at the next station
• Alert the conductor: Use the intercom or emergency button to contact the train operator
• Get off at the next station: Exit and report the issue to station staff
• Call 911: If you witness a crime or feel in immediate danger, call 911
• Use the emergency button: Every train car has an emergency communication button that connects directly to the conductor

Reporting Issues and Getting Help

Emergency Assistance

For emergencies while on Metro:

• 911: Immediate danger or crime in progress
• Emergency buttons: On every train car and platform — they connect to the conductor/station staff
• Station staff: Ask any uniformed Metro employee for assistance

Non-Emergency Issues

For non-emergency concerns:

• LA Metro Customer Relations: (323) 922-2000
• Online: Visit metro.net to report feedback or concerns
• LA Metro app: Report issues directly through the mobile app

Avoid Blocking Doors and Exits

Help maintain safe train and station operations:

• Don't block train doors while they're closing
• Move toward the center of the car, leaving space near doors for people to board and exit
• Don't stand in front of emergency exits
• Respect seat assignments (priority seating for elderly and disabled riders)

Bag and Luggage Safety

If you're traveling with luggage to or from the airport:

• Keep luggage close to you at all times
• Don't place bags in empty seats (passengers need those)
• For heavy luggage, consider using luggage racks (if available) or placing bags between your feet
• Never leave bags unattended on the train or platform

Personal Hygiene and Comfort

LA Metro trains and stations are regularly cleaned, but for your comfort:

• Bring hand sanitizer and use it after touching handrails or doors
• Wash your hands or use sanitizer before eating
• Avoid touching your face until you've sanitized your hands
• Stay hydrated during long rides
• If you're sick, consider other transportation options to avoid spreading illness to other riders

International Visitors and Language Support

If English isn't your first language:

• Download the LA Metro app, which has audio announcements in multiple languages
• Ask staff for help — Metro employees speak various languages, and during the Olympics, volunteer guides will be multilingual
• Download a translation app to help communicate if needed
• Stick to major, well-staffed stations if you need assistance
• Plan your route before you travel to avoid confusion

Planning Your Route Safely

Before riding Metro:

• Use the LA Metro Journey Planner at metro.net to plan your route
• Download the LA Metro app for real-time updates and navigation
• Know your starting and ending stations
• Be aware of which line you're taking and its direction (toward which end of the line)
• Have a backup plan if a line is closed or delayed

Olympic-Specific Safety Information

Increased Security During Major Events

For major Olympic events (Opening Ceremony, closing ceremony, popular sports), expect:

• Additional security screening at some stations
• More LA Metro staff and volunteer guides
• Increased police and security presence
• Longer wait times — arrive early
• Possible crowding on trains and platforms

Banned Items at Olympic Venues

Note that Olympic venues have restrictions on items you can bring:

• Large bags or backpacks may not be allowed into venues
• Weapons, glass containers, and outside alcohol are prohibited
• Check official LA 2028 guidelines before attending events
• You'll go through security screening at venue entrances (not on the train)

Crowd Management on Trains

During popular events, Metro trains will be crowded:

• Arrive early for events to avoid peak rush times
• Use off-peak times if you have flexibility (afternoons vs. evenings)
• Be patient with other visitors unfamiliar with the system
• Hold onto handrails and watch for crowding
• Don't try to board a completely full train — wait for the next one