Prague metro passengers urged to learn emergency protocol after fatal fall

An unfortunate tragedy unfolded earlier this month at the Křižíkova metro station in Prague when a blind man fell onto the tracks. Despite multiple witnesses who observed the man fall, he was hit by an oncoming train and killed. Would you know what to do in such an emergency?

In response to this incident, Prague’s public transport company DPP is reminding passengers of crucial safety procedures that could potentially save lives in similar situations. The key to preventing such tragedies lies in knowing how to use the emergency stop buttons located at each metro station.

The emergency stop buttons, also known as NZV (Nouzový Zastavení Vlak), are installed on the platforms for each track. These buttons are typically positioned at the beginning and end of the platform or on nearby pillars, though the placement is not uniform across all stations. They are covered by protective glass to prevent accidental activation.

In an emergency, if you see someone fall onto the tracks, locate the nearest emergency stop button as quickly as possible. The protective glass covering can be depressed and sild down to access the button. The glass can also be broken if necessary, using your hand or an available object.

Pressing the button sends an immediate signal to the train’s safety system, which will either stop the train or prevent it from departing. Quick action can successfully halt a train before a serious accident in case of emergency.

DPP emphasizes that every second counts. Metro trains travel at speeds of approximately 55 kilometers per hour and require a significant distance to come to a complete stop. By promptly activating the emergency stop button, you can potentially halt the train before it reaches a person on the tracks.

It is important to note that misuse of the emergency stop button is a criminal offense, and the sudden stop could cause injury to those aboard the metro. The button should only be used in genuine emergencies, such as when a person falls onto the tracks.

In the case of a fallen object on the tracks, such as a mobile phone, do not use the button or attempt to retrieve the object. Instead, notify an official who can safely retrieve the object with specialized equipment. Objects such as phones are unlikely to be damaged by passing metro trains.

According to DPP statistics, there have been 105 cases of metro passengers going onto the tracks over the first seven months of 2024, up from 85 cases in the same period last year. The vast majority of these cases are deliberate attempts to access the tracks, e.g. to retrieve a fallen object, as opposed to accidental falls or intentional jumps.

Passengers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the location of the emergency buttons and understand their function to prevent future tragedies. For more details about the use of the emergency stop buttons on Prague's metro, visit the DPP website.