How to stay safe on public transit

Wear face coverings: Each person over the age of 13 should wear a mask that securely covers their nose and mouth at all times when in public. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. “Every time you leave your house, make sure you have keys, wallet and mask,” said Jim Allison, media relations manager for BART. “Add that to the list of things on your checklist.”

Keep your distance: Maintain at least 6 feet of space between yourself and other riders. Do not board buses or trains that are more than half full. Follow established social-distancing markers in stations and at bus stops.

Travel at off-peak hours: If possible, switch up your commute times to avoid crowds at stops and stations, as well as on buses, trains and ferries. “If you can, go to the front or back of the train if middle cars seem a little bit crowded,” Allison said.

Keep your hands clean: If possible, avoid touching shared surfaces or use sanitizing wipes to clean bars and poles you may hang onto for balance. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol immediately after traveling. Use contactless payment:

Consider using a prepaid Clipper card to reduce touching surfaces like kiosks and touchscreens while traveling. Enter and exit buses through rear entry doors if possible. Plan ahead: Buses may skip stops if they are at capacity, so travel with a flexible schedule. Several regular lines are not running, and transit agencies are constantly updating their services. “Check the schedule ahead of time to make sure your route hasn’t been affected,” said Paolo Cosulich-Schwartz, public affairs manager for the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. Protect others: Stay home if you’re feeling sick or have recently come into close contact with a person with COVID-19. “It does rely on a sense of community,” Allison said. “Do whatever you can to make it better.”