Ride Safe on WestCAT
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Your safety is important to us at WestCAT!
Safety and security are #1 at WestCAT
In the years since 9/11, WestCAT has taken several large steps in improving the safety and security of the system. One of those steps included installation of GPS technology on all of the WestCAT fixed route and express buses, a system that has been in place since Spring 2004. This system uses global positioning satellites to record the time, location and the speed of a vehicle at a particular point. The Automatic Vehicle Locator system (AVL) as it is currently known, allows us to monitor all of our vehicles using a standard office PC, displaying their positions on screen. We can thus track our vehicles course and operational status (loading/unloading, in transit, waiting, etc.) in real time- leading to improved efficiency, and security, and better customer service.
Another upgrade in the WestCAT fleet is the installation of a video monitoring system that is designed to automatically take video recordings of the inside of the bus and the exterior surroundings when activated. The automatic activation of video recording sets off when the gravitational forces in the vehicle (G forces) are greater than 3. This can happen with a sudden application of the brakes or in a collision with an element or another vehicle on the road. In addition, the system can be turned on manually. For WestCAT, this system is a useful tool particularly when accidents or unexpected events take place, as it records the sequence of events in real time. This system was installed on the Agency’s fleet in 2004 and it represents an addition to the existing video monitoring system that the vehicles carry.
With regard to our employees, they are all trained to be vigilant and observant of any unusual or suspicious activity and to immediately report anything to the dispatch center they feel could be a potential threat. All WestCAT operators are required to attend monthly safety meetings, as well as refresher courses on all aspects of vehicle operation and emergency procedures. Additionally, management and staff regularly work with local law enforcement, and other agencies to continually update and improve WestCAT's safety and security program.
There are also some steps that WestCAT passengers can take to help keep the system safe. Although the majority of items that are left unattended at bus stops and on buses are harmless, we're asking customers to stay alert and to repot any suspicious packages or activity to a WestCAT employee or to a police officer.
Our drivers and our passengers are the "eyes and ears" of WestCAT!
The following are some guidelines for dealing with an emergency situation:
- Always listen for the operator's instructions and follow them quickly and calmly.
- Upon boarding the bus, familiarize yourself with the location of your nearest emergency exit. Emergency exit procedures are listed on windows, ceiling escape hatches and on doors.
- Familiarize yourself with the location of the fire extinguisher. Fire extinguishers are located inside the front door under the passenger side seat or behind or beneath the driver's seat.
- Using a cell phone, call 9-1-1 for police assistance.
You can rest assured that WestCAT's professional operators, dispatchers and staff are thoroughly trained to respond to emergency situations. Please cooperate with them, remain as calm as possible and act quickly when you have been given instructions by appropriate personnel.
Your Buses, Your Investment
Join the WestCAT Safety and Security Team! The WestCAT Safety and Security Team is an opportunity for passengers to become actively involved in protecting their investment, specifically, WestCAT buses and services.
"Are you aware that every year WestCAT Spends as much as $30,000 in repairs due to graffiti and other forms of vandalism to your buses? This is your hard earned money that could have been invested into your transit system, money that could be better put to use improving services to your community."
So how do you join? It's easy. You can start by dialing (510) 724-7993 and reporting:
Graffiti or vandalism on any WestCAT vehicle.
behavior or unattended items or packages on WestCAT vehicles or at transit stops.
other comments and concerns (all reports are kept confidential).
*Note: Comment cards can be found on all WestCAT vehicles. When reporting, please provide route/bus number, time of occurrence, and location of incident or vehicle if applicable.
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