October 1, 2008: TriMet is adding new security measures to the system, including more police officers, more fare inspections and more cameras at MAX stations. Learn more

Security on TriMet

Keeping you safe

TriMet's top priority is maintaining a safe transit system. Here's what we're doing to help keep you safe:

Transit police/security personnel patrol the system

Transit police officers and contracted security personnel patrol TriMet vehicles and facilities. TriMet operators, supervisors, fare inspectors, customer service staff and maintenance workers provide an additional security presence throughout the transit system.

Random sweeps on vehicles and facilities

Transit police and K-9 units perform random sweeps on board buses and trains and at TriMet facilities including the Portland Mall. These officers search for explosives and suspicious behavior or packages.

Fare inspectors check for valid fare

TriMet fare inspectors and police officers randomly patrol buses, trains and MAX stations to make sure riders have a valid fare. Riding without a valid fare may result in a fine, exclusion or arrest.

Security cameras watch buses, trains and facilities

Video surveillance cameras monitor buses, trains and certain MAX stations and parking garages. The cameras are a deterrent to criminal activity, and the video can be used as evidence for prosecuting crimes. All MAX trains and two-thirds of buses have cameras on board. More than two-thirds of MAX stations have cameras, and additional cameras are being added to the system.

Locations of buses and trains are known at all times

TriMet uses GPS satellites and sensors in the MAX tracks to monitor the location of every bus and train along its route. This helps improve response time in the case of an emergency.

Trespassing prohibited on MAX tracks

For both safety and security reasons, it is illegal to walk or ride a bike on the MAX tracks. Trespassing is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a year in jail and a $5,000 fine.

Coordinated efforts improve emergency response

There is a close link between TriMet, police, fire and ambulance services. We hold regular emergency exercises and all TriMet employees are trained in evacuation and safety procedures.

How you can help

We also rely on riders' eyes and ears to help keep the transit system safe. This is where you come in:

Report suspicious activity

  • If you see suspicious behavior or a suspicious package, tell a TriMet employee or call 9-1-1.
  • TriMet employees can request police or fire response.
  • MAX trains have up to four emergency intercoms to reach the operator.
  • Free 9-1-1 calls can be made at pay phones located at all MAX stations and transit centers.

Don't leave personal items unattended

Please keep personal items, such as purses, bags, backpacks and packages, with you at all times. This helps us avoid unnecessary security alerts and delays.

Listen for instructions in an emergency

Please follow the instructions of the operator or other TriMet staff in the event of an emergency. They are trained to ensure your safety.

$1,000 reward for crime information

It is a felony under Oregon law to assault a TriMet operator or vandalize TriMet property. TriMet offers a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of any person who assaults a TriMet employee or vandalizes TriMet property.

  • To report a crime, call 9-1-1.