Metrolink passengers are being urged to stay safe and take extra care around trams while travelling on the network over Christmas as part of a new Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) campaign.
Passenger and staff safety, as well as the safety of pedestrians and cyclists travelling or moving around trams and stops on the network, is a critical priority for TfGM and operator KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM).
To help stay safe, passengers are being asked to keep themselves and others safe at Metrolink stops by taking care when boarding or departing trams, with services expected to be busier over the holidays with the Christmas markets and high-profile events being held across Greater Manchester.
As the dark nights draw in people are also being reminded to look both ways when crossing tram tracks, and to stick to designated tram crossings where possible.
Alcohol can also affect people’s judgement and co-ordination, so anyone looking to enjoy a few Christmas drinks over the coming weeks are being advised to take extra care when using the network.
The Mind the Tracks campaign will promote a range of safety messages aimed at encouraging safe behaviour around moving trams and Metrolink infrastructure including tram crossings, as well as highlighting unsafe actions which could put people at risk.
Danny Vaughan, TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, said: “Staff and passenger safety is our number one priority, and we do everything we can to make sure trams and tram stops are safe.
“But trams and stops are only as safe as the way they are used by passengers, and an individual carrying out unsafe or antisocial behaviour on the network could put themselves or others at risk.
“Distractions can lead to accidents, and people should ensure they are aware of their surroundings when crossing tracks or using the Metrolink network and use designated crossings where possible.
“We want everyone to have fun and use Metrolink in the lead-up to Christmas, but I’d strongly urge people – particularly those who might be enjoying a few drinks – to take extra care when boarding or departing trams at a time when the Metrolink network will be busier than usual.”
Metrolink has a very good safety record, but in 2021 there were several serious accidents, including falls from platforms, and sadly two people died during the festive period.
Posters carrying the #MindTheTracks safety messaging will be appearing across the network during the Christmas period, alongside bespoke safety announcements on the network and social media activity.
Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said: “Metrolink is a great service and, along with the bus network, is perfect for getting around Greater Manchester for a night out.
“You can travel anywhere on Metrolink all weekend for £6.80 and it’s very encouraging to see ridership virtually back to normal on Saturdays and Sundays and growing strongly on weekdays.
“Please take care to keep everyone safe this festive period, and also respect our hardworking transport staff. Stay back from platform edges, only cross the tracks at designated points and, as always, treat everyone with mutual respect.”
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