Emergency Instructions
While emergencies happen very rarely, it is very important to be prepared. The most important thing to do is stay calm and wait for instructions from MBTA or Keolis officials and Transit Police.
If you are medically qualified and able to help in an emergency, please identify yourself to the Transit Police or T staff.
What's Considered an Emergency?
Please dial 911 or call the MBTA Transit Police at 617-222-1212 if you see any of the following things:
- Someone in distress, whether it’s you or another passenger
- Smoke or fire
- Unattended packages or bags
- Suspicious activity—even if it seems insignificant
If the Emergency Is on a Vehicle
Alert staff on the vehicle. MBTA staff and crews are thoroughly trained to assist customers in emergency situations where safety and security are concerned. The MBTA also works closely with Transit Police, Boston Fire Department, and Boston EMS to respond to emergencies.
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Subway
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Use the intercoms at each end of the train to alert staff.
The intercom is a silver rectangle located to the right of the emergency exit doors. It has a speaker and a large, bright button that says PRESS FOR ASSITANCE above it.
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Commuter Rail
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Alert Keolis staff onboard the vehicle.
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Bus
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Alert the operator.
In the event of a bus emergency, exterior lights will flash green, and the destination display will say, “Emergency. Call Transit Police.” If you see a bus like this, please call Transit Police or 911 immediately.
Follow These Safety Procedures
- Familiarize yourself with the emergency instructions posted on the walls and emergency exit doors in each train car.
- Do not open rail car doors or evacuate a train unless you are told to do so by a MBTA employee or unless your immediate safety is threatened.
- If you evacuate a train, do not touch any tracks or rails under any circumstances. The tracks are electrified, and nearby trains may still be in motion.
- The safest place for you is on the train. If you can't stay in the car you are on, walk calmly to another car that is unaffected by the emergency.
- If you require assistance, let MBTA or emergency response personnel know. Wheelchairs or other assistive devices may be removed separately.
What to Expect During a Train Evacuation
If necessary, MBTA personnel may ask customers to evacuate a train in one of the four ways listed below. To ensure your safety, please follow instructions provided by MBTA or Keolis officials and Transit Police.
They will help you exit the train safely and keep you informed about the emergency either in person or through the public address system.
If the Emergency Is at a Stop or Station
If there’s a fire alarm or you are asked to evacuate, please proceed to the nearest safe exit and follow any instructions provided by MBTA or Keolis officials and Transit Police.
Always use the stairs rather than an elevator or escalator. If you can, please assist older adults and passengers with disabilities.
Planning Your Commute
Some emergencies may close stations or cause delays. Plan ahead of time and check for service updates online or by calling 617-222-3200, 711 for TTY callers; VRS for ASL callers.
