Experts weigh in on public transportation safety

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Planes, trains and buses are standard public transportation methods that are used every day. But utilizing these methods of transportation may mean amping up public protection.

Expectations when taking public transportation are a safe ride to your desired destination, but that may not always be the case.

On Aug. 22, in North Carolina, Iryna Zarutska was riding on a Charlotte commuter train and was fatally stabbed by suspect Decarlos Brown Jr.

In Zarutska's tragic case, these things cannot always be avoided.

News-Press NOW spoke to the Executive Director of the St. Joseph Safety and Health Council, Frank Till, on safety tips to keep in mind while riding public transportation.

Till believes awareness of our surroundings is vital.

"If we're in a setting like that and something doesn't feel right, we're around a group of people. It doesn't feel right. We need to move." Till said.

Till also said carrying defense devices such as mace and tasers is a great way to protect yourself. Additionally, having someone know where you're going is important and easy with the phone tracking apps.

If something does not feel right, Till said to trust one's instincts, as travelers can always get on another train or bus.