MTA ridership reached a new record Friday of over 5.6 million people on the transit system, the highest it’s ever been since the pandemic. Yet there are safety concerns with increased ridership, experts say. 

Jennifer Cassetta, a wellness coach and self-defense expert, joined NY1’s Stef Manisero Saturday to talk about tips on how New Yorkers can protect themselves on mass transit. 

“Practicing situational awareness is essentially being aware of your surroundings when you’re out and about,” she said. “Taking information with your eyes and your ears and most importantly, listening to your intuition.” 

Cassetta said riders should put away their phones and earbuds to ensure they’re paying attention to their surroundings.

When asked for a tip for New Yorkers when they approach an uncomfortable situation on transit, she said in order for people to avoid danger, they need to keep themselves situated safely.

“For example, not standing so close to the platform, especially if you’re not paying attention and you’re listening to your headphones and you’re on your phone,” Cassetta explained. “If you do have to get the text or check your social media, put your back up against something so you could still see periphery as you do that and put your phone away as soon as possible.”

Cassetta also discussed her book, “The Art of Badassery: Unleash Your Mojo with Wisdom of the Dojo,” and how it teaches readers how to stick up for themselves in any situation.