Since 1972, the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system has been an essential keystone in transportation for Bay Area residents. Blind, low vision, and persons with other varying disabilities are a substantial community within the BART patron population, and we, at LightHouse, want to help our community feel as safe and comfortable riding BART as possible. With that, we’d like to invite out students and their friends and family to join LightHouse and the BART Accessibility Team at the Oakland 19^th Street BART station, upper level, for a BART Safety Training on Tuesday, January 31 from 10:30 AM to noon.

This training will help participants answer questions and prepare for scenarios, such as: Have you ever thought about what would happen if you were to accidentally fall into the tracks on a BART platform? Do you know how to contact the operator for help while on a BART train? What do you do if there are no seats available

This event will give you the opportunity to inspect a full-scale model of the track with the elusive “third rail,” along with the cubby area under the platform where one can remain safe if a train were coming. We will have a hands-on experience in a BART car to check out the seating arrangements, the door to transfer to the next car, and the location of all the safety features. The LightHouse Media and Accessible Design Lab staff will also be on hand to show you the tactile BART station maps that are available for you to order.

RSVP is strongly encouraged to ensure attendees have an opportunity to access all aspects of the presentation. To RSVP, or if you have additional questions, please contact LightHouse Community Outreach Coordinator Sheri Albers at SAlbers@lighthouse-sf.org, or 415-694-7331.