Staying Green, Clean, and Safe with Public Transportation
One of the biggest reasons that people opt away from taking public transportation is that they feel that it is unsafe and dirty. However, choosing to ride the bus, train, or subway can mean substantial monetary savings as well as make a big difference in how much negative impact a person has on the environment. It can also free the person up to do small tasks on the way into the office, rather than he or she being tied to the wheel for the entire commute. With there being so many wonderful reasons to ride the rail (or other form of public transit), it simply makes sense to consider the best ways to take extra precaution and safe guard against thievery and germs before hopping aboard. The truth of the matter is that one can ride any one of these public vehicles and remain perfectly intact, as long as he or she does a little preventive maintenance. This article addresses five things that all individuals should consider before buying the next ticket.
Take Advantage of What Science Has to Offer Cleanliness is a very hard thing to accomplish during cold and flu seasons. Even the less sickly months have many illnesses that could make work, family, and even those few minutes of fun impossible. While this should not deter you from riding public transportation, it should be a reminder to respect the fact that thousands of hands may be touching those same surfaces every day. Fortunately, science and manufacturers have brought us several wonderful products lately to help us battle germs and infection. First and foremost is antibacterial gel. These little bottles or wipes are wonderful for killing anything that might get on your skin while riding with all of those other passengers. Simply squeeze a dab on your hand and rub in, or use a wipe to clean your skin and the surfaces that you must touch.
Another group of great items on the market today are those vitamins, minerals, and medications that are used for preventative measures. Flu shots, high doses of calcium, and the use of a daily multi-vitamin can really do wonders for your immune system and make that travel a little less worrisome.
Dress Down Fine. Maybe you work in an office where the words “dress down” are rarely, if ever uttered, but that doesn’t mean that you need to or will want to showcase your status on the bus, train, or subway. Doing so could make you a sitting target for thieves. Rather than wearing your finest clothes when climbing on board, perhaps you would be better off wearing jeans, sneakers, and hiking shoes until you get to the office, and then changing into the suit, tie, and Rolex or skirt, blouse, and Pradas. You can look great all day long and still do your part to save the world each morning and night. Given the explanation for why you are doing what you are doing, who could argue?
People Watch This might be an activity that has gotten people in trouble in the past, but it is essential when travelling with hundreds of other passengers. This doesn’t mean that you need to consistently stare at those closest to you, but it might be wise to take a quick peek at the other passengers. Instincts play a big part in keeping a person safe, and if another person’s actions are causing you concern, then it might be best to stay away.
Travel Light, but Carry a Few Extras In a previous section, changing at the office was suggested. However, it is probably best to leave that change of clothing in your office rather than carting it along in a big bag. Try to keep your load light, so you can get easily in and out of the vehicle. The harder it is for you to get around, the more likely it is that you will get injured, run late, or become a target of the thief in the crowd. Not to mention the fact that you are far more likely to get discouraged with public transportation if you are forced to lug fifty extra pounds through stations and the two blocks to your office. Make it easy on yourself and the commute can be enjoyable and far safer.
Plan Ahead and Leave Early Another fear of public transportation is scheduling. It is rare that one can find a boss that doesn’t mind him or her being late to work. For this reason, it is important to ensure prompt arrival. That is most easily achieved if one takes the time to plan the route ahead of time and learn the exact timeline of the transportation. It is also good to have a backup plan in case a bus doesn’t arrive on time, or the subway is so jammed with people that you can’t catch the first car. Because we all know that this can happen, especially in situations of bad weather or large accidents, it is always best to leave early. If you have to be to work at 9:00, then plan on being there at 8:45. This allows a few extra minutes for travel and worst case scenarios, and your boss will be impressed at your dedication to your job.