Phoenix Valley Metro Creates Safety App for Riders

Phoenix Valley Metro Creates Safety App for Riders

When a rider uses the app or a text to report a non-emergency security incident, the operations center alerts security staff so they can find the corresponding train and respond to the report.

The Valley Metro in Phoenix, Ariz., has created an app to allow people to contact security while riding. The app is free to use on both Apple and Android devices, and riders who don’t have access to apps can report incidents by texting 602-253-7886, according to CEO Scott Smith.

When a rider uses the app or a text to report a non-emergency security incident, the operations center alerts security staff so they can find the corresponding train and respond to the report.

Smith said the app should be used for situations that are not urgent enough for a 911 call; for example, an unruly drunk passenger. According to the Valley Metro website, riders can also use the service to report human trafficking, maintenance problems, suspicious packages, vandalism and panhandling.

“It could be something as simple as a spilled drink that’s created a mess in the car,” Smith said.

The reporting service, via both text and app, are currently only available for use on the light rail.

“Right now we’re just using it on rail. We’re starting out there to see how it works and test the system on smaller scale, but we hope to be able to expand it to bus in the near future,” Smith said.

Smith believes the app will help improve the experience of Valley Metro riders.

“Our goal and objective is to make everybody have a safe and comfortable ride on our light-rail system,” Smith said.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

Featured

  • Human Risk Management: A Silver Bullet for Effective Security Awareness Training

    You would think in a world where cybersecurity breaches are frequently in the news, that it wouldn’t require much to convince CEOs and C-suite leaders of the value and importance of security awareness training (SAT). Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Read Now

  • Windsor Port Authority Strengthens U.S.-Canada Border Waterway Safety, Security

    Windsor Port Authority, one of just 17 national ports created by the 1999 Canada Marine Act, has enhanced waterway safety and security across its jurisdiction on the U.S.-Canada border with state-of-the-art cameras from Axis Communications. These cameras, combined with radar solutions from Accipiter Radar Technologies Inc., provide the port with the visibility needed to prevent collisions, better detect illegal activity, and save lives along the river. Read Now

  • Survey: 84 Percent of Healthcare Organizations Spotted Cyberattack in Last 12 Months

    Netwrix, a vendor specializing in cybersecurity solutions focused on data and identity threats, surveyed 1,309 IT and security professionals globally and recently released findings for the healthcare sector based on the data collected. It reveals that 84% of organizations in the healthcare sector spotted a cyberattack on their infrastructure within the last 12 months. Phishing was the most common type of incident experienced on premises, similar to other industries. Read Now

  • Keynote Speakers Announced for ISC West 2025

    ISC West, hosted in collaboration with premier sponsor the Security Industry Association (SIA), unveiled its 2025 Keynote Series. Featuring a powerhouse lineup of experts in cybersecurity, retail security, and leadership, each keynote will offer invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities transforming the field of security. Read Now

    • Industry Events
    • ISC West

Featured Cybersecurity

Webinars

New Products

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame. 3

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis. 3

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions. 3