Safety Tips for Senior Citizens

How to Be a Smart Escalator Rider

Be Watchful. Watch your step when getting on or off an escalator. And if your vision is impaired, take the elevator.
Be Attentive. Use proper escalator posture -- stand at the center of the step facing forward, always holding the handrail. Watch out for loose clothing which may catch.
Be Refreshed. Avoid leaning on the handrail or resting your foot on the escalator's side. If you're tired and feel unstable, use the elevator.
Be Sensible. If you're holding too many packages, use the elevator. Anyone balancing packages can lose their balance. Your packages will fall and so might you.
Be Wise. Escalators are for people on foot, unaided. People who need cane or walker assistance or those pushing a carriage or wheelchair should always use the elevator.
Be Considerate. Quickly step away from an escalator at the end of your ride. Remember there are people behind you waiting to get off. They'll bump into you and possibly knock you down if there is no where else to go.

How to Be a Smart Elevator Rider

Be Patient. It's unsafe to try to catch an elevator by sticking a shopping bag or your hand between closing doors. Not all elevator doors retract automatically. You can't tell; so don't chance it. Wait for the next elevator.
Be Alert. Make sure the elevator is level with the floor. A misaligned platform is a sign of a potential technical problem. Catch the next ride.
Be Polite. Let people closest to the door exit first. Age or gender doesn't matter. Safety does.
Be Smart. If the elevator stops between floors, push the alarm button or use the elevator's telephone or intercom to call for help. Then wait for a trained person to help you.