METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Safety app helps keep tabs on students walking alone on campus

The Companion app provides users route information to specified contacts and notifies them if something goes awry.

September 21, 2015
Safety app helps keep tabs on students walking alone on campus

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

1 min to read


University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — A team of college students at the University of Michigan developed a safety app that lets you virtually "walk home" with a friend and then sends an alert if anything goes awry as they follow your route home, reports CoExist.

The students' Companion app, which can be used anywhere, is simple to use. You type in the address you're headed to, pull down a map, and then pick a friend or two from your list of contacts. They don't have to have the app to help; a text message with a link to a map will pop up on their phone, according to the report.

Ad Loading...

If something seems to go wrong, the user has 15 seconds to push a button to say they're ok. If not, their phone automatically turns into an alarm to try to scare the attacker, and gives the option to call the police. The contact watching the map will also have the option to call 911, CoExist reported.

For the full story, click here.

More Security and Safety

A graphic with an image of the CATS Blue Line and text reading "FTA Cites 18 Safety Violations at CATS Following Federal Audit."
Security and Safetyby StaffFebruary 3, 2026

Federal Transit Administration Cites 18 Safety Violations at CATS Following Audit

The audit found multiple safety compliance failures at the Charlotte agency, citing elevated assault risks and ordering corrective action within 30 days.

Read More →
Security and SafetyJanuary 22, 2026

Researchers Identify Top Risk Factors for Pedestrian-vehicle Crashes at Massachusetts Bus Stops

While their comprehensive analysis of bus stops focused on Massachusetts, the researchers are excited about the generalizability of the findings and application to other locations.

Read More →
SponsoredJanuary 19, 2026

3 New Ways Fleet Software Pays: ROI opportunities for modern fleet managers

Transit agencies depend on safe, reliable vehicles to deliver consistent service. This eBook examines how next-generation fleet software helps agencies move from reactive processes to proactive operations through automated maintenance, real-time safety insights, and integrated data. Learn how fleets are improving uptime, safety outcomes, and operational efficiency.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
CTA railcar in station.
Technologyby StaffJanuary 16, 2026

CTA Innovation Studio Expands Pilot to Reduce Smoke, Odors

The new filters include substantially more activated carbon than traditional HVAC filters, which is especially helpful in providing a better transit riding experience for vulnerable populations, particularly children, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses, according to the CTA.

Read More →
New MCTS Bus design.
Security and Safetyby StaffJanuary 16, 2026

Milwaukee Rolls Out New Measures to Enhance Bus Safety

MCTS officials said the new pilots are part of a broader commitment to improving the rider experience through proactive, visible safety strategies that balance enforcement with customer support.

Read More →
Transit signal priority and public transit agencies.
New Mobilityby Alex RomanJanuary 16, 2026

How AI is Redefining Transit Operations and Signal Priority

In a recent episode of METROspectives, LYT CEO Timothy Menard discusses how artificial intelligence, cloud connectivity, and real-time data are transforming traffic management, boosting bus reliability, and enabling system-wide transit optimization across cities.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Security and Safetyby StaffJanuary 15, 2026

SEPTA Crime Rates Continue Downward Trend, Report Finds

In addition, Transit Police reported strides in stepped-up enforcement of fare evasion and quality-of-ride offenses.

Read More →

People Movement: Vontas Names New GM and Much More

METRO’s People Movement highlights the latest leadership changes, promotions, and personnel news across the public transit, motorcoach, and people mobility sectors.

Read More →
A overhead view of an LA Metro rail station platform.
Security and Safetyby StaffJanuary 13, 2026

LA Metro Launches Care-Based Public Safety Division

The new division brings ambassadors, outreach, and crisis response together to improve safety, coordination, and rider experience systemwide.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Security and Safetyby Alex RomanDecember 23, 2025

Establishing Standards & Codes in Canada, with CSA’s Ana-Maria Tomlinson

In this latest episode of METROspectives, we explore the evolving role of transit standards, including how they're responding to emerging technologies, climate change, and the growing need for equity and sustainability.

Read More →