Is train travel safe?

Since the coronavirus outbreak, the thought of traveling on public transport has been daunting to many. Train operators are currently doing all they can to ensure that their passengers stay safe: they have increased their onboard and station cleaning and have also socially distanced seats. The potential risk of infection on trains does depend on how crowded it is, as well as how far away you can keep from others during your journey and at the station. Of course, where possible, it’s important that you try to stay at home, but if you do need to hop on the train to get to work for example, here are some things you can do to stay safe on public transport.

Wear a mask

Since June, masks have been mandatory on public transport across the UK. Before leaving your house, ensure that you have got yours with you. To be extra cautious, you could always keep a spare one in your bag, too.

Buy your train tickets in advance

If you have got an upcoming journey planned, limit the need to come into contact with any staff by purchasing your train tickets in advance online. So, if you’re planning to hop on a Wakefield to London train this weekend, or making your plans for your journey up north, get your tickets beforehand. This way, you could even save yourself a bit of money, too.

Travel during off-peak times

Nobody likes a busy train. If a full carriage fills you with dread – particularly during these uncertain times – try to travel off-peak where you can. This way, you can benefit from quieter carriages, and less people to navigate around.

Ensure you’re always at least one meter away from people where possible

Coronavirus spreads when an infected person sneezes, coughs or exhales droplets packed with the virus into the air. By keeping your distance from people, this will help to limit your chances of getting it.

Choose a route with the lowest number of changes

If you’re able to choose a journey with very few changes, it will certainly help to make you feel safer. This way, you won’t have to come into contact with as many people, as you won’t have to constantly be getting on and off the train.

Keep a hand sanitizer in your pocket

On trains, we often touch things like the seats, handrails, and tables. For the times that you can’t get to the bathroom to wash your hands, make sure that you have a hand sanitizer handy. While traditional washing is still the best method, sanitizers can be used as an alternative if there is no other option.

Wash your hands as soon as your journey is finished

Until you have washed your hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth on the train.