Foothill Transit Watch: Free Safety and Security Mobile App
Introducing an easier way to See Something, Say Something.
The Foothill Transit Watch app gives customers an easy and discreet way to report safety and security concerns to Foothill Transit. Use the app to confidentially send us photos, text messages, short six-second videos, and information and we’ll address it.
The app is easy to use! Follow the directions on the screen and in mere seconds your report is sent so that we can look into the safety issue. Here’s what you can do through the app:
- Report an Issue allows you to anonymously send text, videos, or photos directly to Foothill Transit. The app automatically disables flash on your camera so you can report discreetly and provide us with as much detail of the situation as possible.
- Call 911 should be only used in an emergency. It will automatically connect you to police.
You may also receive BOLO (Be on the Look Out) Alerts on our app. This alert distributes information about persons of interest. If you see anyone from a BOLO Alert on board, contact 911 immediately and send a detailed report through the app.
Thank you for riding Foothill Transit!
Frequently Asked Questions
►What is the Foothill Transit Watch?
Foothill Transit Watch gives customers an easy way to report safety concerns or suspicious activities at a bus stop or while riding the bus. Using Foothill Transit Watch, customers can send photos, videos, text messages, and locations of an incident directly and instantaneously to the appropriate authorities.
►What types of incidents or concerns should I report?
Customers provide a vital second set of eyes to ensure safety on our system. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with your surroundings (on buses and elsewhere) and be alert. If You See Something, Say Something! Foothill Transit Watch allows customers to report the following:
- Disruptive behavior
- Assault
- Suspicious activity or people
- Unattended bag or package
- Assault or fighting
- Illegal parking
- Vandalism or graffiti
- Damage to bus stops or shelters
- Other Safety or security issue
Please note: The Foothill Transit Watch app does not replace 911 emergency services. In the event of an actual emergency, Call 911 for immediate assistance.
►Can I send complaints or comments through the app?
No. Please share your complaints and comments with us by phone 1-800-RIDE-INFO (743-3463), e-mail
comment@foothilltransit.org, or in-person at our Transit Stores so that we can appropriately address your comments.
►Where will my report be sent?
The report will directly be sent to our dispatch control center where one of our Dispatchers will appropriately address the issue immediately.
►What if I don’t have reception when I send a report?
Reports sent in an area with no or limited cellular connectivity will be stored and delivered when connectivity returns. A notification will be sent to your phone once the report is successfully delivered.
►What is a BOLO Alert?
BOLO (be on the lookout) Alerts on Ride Report/Foothill Transit Watch may display alerts from Foothill Transit about specific persons of interest. For example: you may see information about a missing person or child. Immediately call 911 and send a report to Foothill Transit if you see a person from a BOLO Alert.
►What if can’t download the app or I don’t have Android or Apple IOS?
You can still report safety concerns or suspicious activities to us if you do not have access to the Foothill Transit Watch app by texting our text hotline at 626-243-7322*.
*Messaging and data rates from your mobile phone carrier may apply.
►General Safety
- Never run after or next to a moving bus.
- Don’t play near buses, trains or tracks; pushing and shoving can cause accidents.
- Hold on to your child when a bus approaches.
- Wait for the vehicle to stop before approaching.
- Wait for exiting customers to leave, then board.
- Watch your step, especially at night or in wet weather.
- Take a seat if possible; use handrails/handholds.
- Be ready to exit when you arrive at your stop and use the rear doors.
- Step away after exiting.
►Bus Tips
- Wait on the sidewalk away from the curb, not in or near the street.
- When using bike racks, always stay in view of the bus operator.
- When standing, stay behind the yellow line, not on the steps.
- Keep all parts of your body inside the bus.
- Exit through rear doors whenever possible.
- If you drop something when exiting, leave it on the ground until the bus drives away.
►Protect Your Phone
Cell phones, smart phones and other electronic devices are great ways to use your time on board, but they can be attractive targets for thieves. These simple precautions can reduce your risk.
- Be Alert – Most thefts are surprise grabs, with phones or other items taken from unsuspecting riders who may be engrossed in using them at that moment.
- Be Secure – Put your phone away when getting on and off buses. It’s a prime time for thieves to strike.
- Be Aware – Be familiar with your surroundings and report any suspicious behavior.
