What to Do If You’re Harassed on the SkyTrain

What to Do If You’re Harassed on the SkyTrain in Vancouver

It happens fast. A stranger stands too close, whispers something you can’t ignore, or touches you in a crowded car. You freeze, unsure whether it’s safer to move, speak up, or stay still.

Many Vancouver riders describe that same moment when safety suddenly feels out of reach. Knowing what to do in that moment and afterwards can help you stay safe and ensure the incident is taken seriously.

Harassment on the SkyTrain Is Not Your Fault

If you’ve been harassed on the SkyTrain, you didn’t cause it. Harassment is a deliberate act by the offender, not a reaction to anything you did.

You are not overreacting by feeling shaken or angry. You have every right to feel safe on public transit, and your response—whether confronting, moving away, or quietly reporting—is valid.

Prioritise safety first

Knowing what to do if you're harrasseed on the SkyTrain starts with trusting your instincts. Move toward other passengers, brighter areas, or another car. Step off at the next station if possible.

According to TransLink, every SkyTrain platform and car includes a yellow emergency strip and help phone that connect directly to Transit Control. Once activated, Transit Police can be dispatched immediately.

If someone follows you or the situation escalates, call 911 right away or find a SkyTrain attendant. Your priority is to stay visible and close to others until help arrives.

Get confidential support before you report

After an incident, adrenaline and shock can linger. Talking with someone trained in crisis response helps you decide what comes next.

In British Columbia, VictimLink BC (1-800-563-0808) offers 24-hour support in more than 150 languages. Battered Women’s Support Services can be reached at 604-687-1867, and the Ending Violence Association of BC provides local resources at evabc.ca. TransLink’s Safe Space Program connects riders with trauma-informed staff at major stations.

You don’t need to prove what happened to access support. These services exist to help you emotionally and practically, whether or not you choose to make a report.

Report & record what happened

Reporting helps Transit Police identify repeat offenders and improve safety measures. According to Metro Vancouver Transit Police, even anonymous reports assist long-term prevention.

You can text 87-77-77 to reach officers anytime, call 604-515-8300 for non-emergencies, or use the OnDuty app for discreet reporting with location details. If you are in danger or the person remains nearby, call 911 immediately.

Include the time, direction of travel, nearby stations, and a description of the person. Officers can guide you if you’re unsure what to say. A Transit Police spokesperson said that reports made in real time often lead to faster arrests because nearby officers can intercept suspects before they exit the system.

Preserve evidence if you can

If you plan to report later, write down what happened as soon as possible. Note the time, station, train direction, and any details that stood out. Even partial descriptions can help investigators.

If a witness was present, ask for their contact information before leaving. You can also request that Transit Police preserve security footage once your report is logged.

Know your rights as a passenger

Under Canadian law, behaviour that causes fear or distress can be classified as criminal harassment or assault depending on what occurred. Transit Police handle these cases seriously. You have the right to report anonymously, to request a female officer, and to receive information about support services after reporting. You are also entitled to updates once an investigation begins.

If you believe your case was mishandled, you can file a complaint through TransLink’s feedback system and request clarification on how your report was processed.

Rebuild confidence in using transit

After an incident, many riders avoid certain routes or travel only during daylight. These reactions are understandable but do not have to be permanent. Confidence often returns when safety feels visible again. You can start by travelling with a friend, sitting near other passengers, or positioning yourself close to attendants. If you ever feel uneasy, text 87-77-77 so Transit Police are aware and monitoring your route.

In 2024, a woman who reported a groping incident at Metrotown Station helped officers identify a repeat offender through video footage. Her report led to an arrest within days and contributed to new patrol patterns on the Expo Line. Her story shows that speaking up helps not only you but everyone who rides.

Vancouver’s safety initiatives

TransLink continues to expand its Community Safety Officer program at major hubs such as Commercial–Broadway, Waterfront, and Surrey Central. These officers receive trauma-informed training and wear clearly marked uniforms that distinguish them from police.

The City of Vancouver, in partnership with BWSS and the Ending Violence Association of BC, supports awareness campaigns encouraging bystanders to intervene safely and report harassment when they see it. Each initiative aims to make public transit a space of visibility, not fear.

You’re not alone

If you’ve been harassed on the SkyTrain, you are not alone. The most important thing is to stay safe, report when you can, and seek help when you’re ready. Every report helps identify patterns, strengthen safety protocols, and remind offenders that harassment will not go unseen.

The SkyTrain should not feel like a test of endurance. You deserve to travel without fear. Real safety begins when every rider knows what to do and feels supported to act.