Safety Tips for Escalators & Elevators

In addition to buses and trains, safety on the CTA also includes escalators and elevators. Here are a few basic safety tips to keep in mind when riding an escalator or elevator:

Escalators

• Face the direction the escalator is traveling.
• Step on and off the escalator with care.
• Do not run on an escalator.
• Securely hold a child’s hand while on an escalator.
• Grab the handrail as you step on an escalator.
• Keep a firm grip on the handrail.
• Do not take wheelchairs, strollers, carts or similar wheeled objects on an escalator.
• Don’t wear soft soled, open toed or rubbery soled shoes when riding an escalator.
• Check for loose shoelaces or loose clothing before stepping onto an escalator.
• Keep your hands, feet and clothing clear of the side panels of the escalator.
• Do not sit on the steps or stand close to the sides of an escalator.
• Once at the end of an escalator, step off immediately.
• Do not let your feet slide off the end of an escalator.
• Move away from the end of an escalator area so that others behind you have room to exit.

Elevators

• Push the call button for your floor.
• Watch for the arrival of the elevator at your floor.
• Stand clear of the elevator doors and stand aside for others that may be exiting.
• If the elevator is full, wait for the next one.
• Don’t attempt to step into or stop closing doors.
• Push and hold the “door open” button if the doors need to be kept open.
• In case of a fire, always exit using the stairs.
• Once on the elevator, press the button for your floor and move to the back of the elevator so others may also board.
• If the doors do not open when the elevator stops, push the “door open” button.
• Once you reach your floor, immediately exit the elevator, but do not push anyone in front of you.
• Watch your step when boarding and exiting. The elevator may not be level with the floor.
• Never climb out of a stalled elevator and do not attempt to pry open the doors of a stopped elevator.
• In an emergency, use the “alarm” or “help” button, the telephone or intercom to call for assistance.
• Wait for help to arrive, but don’t try to leave an abnormally stopped elevator.