Big crowds are on the way to Toronto and here are 3 tips to help you stay safe

It's the summer of football as one of the world's biggest tournaments comes to Toronto. The city is sure to be alive with excitement, from packed patios and watch parties to bustling transit stations and celebrations. There will be no shortage of energy across the city. 

But with great fun comes great responsibility.

While it'd be great if people would simply not harm others, that's not the reality of the world we live in. So, it's important to know how to keep yourself safe when the city gets crowded.

From avoiding danger entirely to knowing where to look for help, these three tips – including one simple phrase that could discreetly signal you need assistance – can help you stay safe and feel empowered when the big tournament takes over Toronto this summer.

Getting around safely

If you're heading to any of the matches, driving to the stadium is strongly discouraged and parking is extremely limited. Fortunately, the TTC and GO Transit are offering frequent trains, later overnight services, and dedicated pedestrian routes.

Tickets can be purchased at subway station vending machines, LRT stops on Line 5 Eglinton and Line 6 Finch West, and Shoppers Drug Mart or Loblaws, and can be bought in advance and activated on first use. For up-to-date service information, subscribe to MyTTC e-Services and check the Live Service Alerts.

Be aware of your surroundings

Constant vigilance is a key component of safety when enjoying a night out, especially amongst crowds or in places where drinking is common. This can include making sure the contents of your purse and pockets are always secure, always knowing where the exit is, and never leaving your drink unattended. And of course, look out for your friends!

Just a note, if something does happen to you, it is not your fault. Someone hurting you, taking advantage of you, or harming you in any way is not a reflection of your self-worth, and it is never the victim’s fault for the crime someone else chooses to commit. Speaking of which…

Ask for Angela

Know where to turn for help if you need it. 

The grim reality is that major sports events pose a significant risk of an increase in gender-based violence, including harassment and physical assault, intimate partner violence, and trafficking. It’s why Victim Services Toronto has partnered with Loblaw to enhance the safety and well-being of the community with an expansion of the Ask for Angela program.

Ask for Angela is a community-based safety initiative that provides a discreet way for individuals who feel unsafe, vulnerable, exploited, or threatened to signal that they need help. For someone experiencing a difficult or dangerous situation, knowing there is a safe place to turn can make all the difference.

A person experiencing violence can enter the store and use the code phrase, "Is Angela here?" to any staff member, which signals a need for assistance. The staff will then guide the person to a secure and private location away from others who are present to openly talk and determine their needs.

From there, staff can help connect them with the support they need, which could include contacting the police if requested, Victim Services Toronto, or a friend or guardian.

Across Toronto, trained staff members at participating Loblaw locations are prepared to respond with compassion, discretion, and care. Participating locations include Real Canadian Superstore, Loblaws, Shoppers Drug Mart, No Frills, Valu-Mart, and Your Independent Grocer stores throughout Toronto.

Everyone deserves to feel safe. Whether you're visiting the city or have called Toronto home for years, knowing where to turn can help make all the difference. If you need protection or support, visit a Loblaw store and ask for Angela.