Chicago is a pretty cool place to live in, especially if youre into art and architecture. Of course, no place is perfect, and Chicago has its own set of risks as well. Yes, 2015 did show a considerable decline in the number of crimes related to public transport. But there will always be instances when you may not be so lucky.

If youre fairly new to the city, you can definitely use the following tips to keep yourself safe:

 

Watch out for busy times and seasons.

The rush hour will often post the more risks when it comes to public transport. After all, the more people on trains, the more cover pickpockets will have as well. Be aware that there is a higher risk of crime over the summer season as well, simply because thieves and robbers know that there are more out-of- towners during this season.

Map your trips ahead of time.

Walking around and making it obvious that youre new here is not going to help your cause atall. If your route is not automatic to you just yet, make sure you map it out in your head so that you wont have to get caught standing around, scratching your head on some random train platform.

 

 

Use the bus and train trackers.
Its great that there are CTA travel apps that would allow you to find out when the trains and buses are coming. It will allow you to spend more time moving around and less time waiting alone on a deserted bus stop.

Always stay near any form of authority.
When you sit near the train operator or the driver, there is also less chance of anything untoward happening to you. Criminals would always position themselves in areas where it would be very difficult to alert the authority.

Keep your back pockets empty.
Your back pocket is the riskiest part of your body because its one area you wouldnt be able to see as easily. Pickpockets will always have an easy time grabbing anything thats in your back pocket without you feeling a thing.

Keep your valuables hidden.
So you bought the latest smartphone thats worth someone elses salary for a few months. Theres no need to broadcast it by flaunting it on the train or in the bus. That only serves as a magnet for every criminal on the public transport system.

Take a cab instead.
If you arent too familiar with the city just yet, better grab a cab instead of rising it. You can book a cab and ask for a pickup through the Universal Taxi app no matter where you are around the city. Universal Taxi will also make sure you get off at the right place. Try not to experiment with public transport at critical times if youre still new around town.

Public transport may be the cheaper option, but its not always the safest. Especially for newcomers like you, make sure you ease yourself into being a Chicago commuter slowly but surely