Getting around safely this Stampede

It’s that time of year again, when Calgary is abuzz with Stampede fever. With large crowds expected to converge on the Stampede grounds, finding a ride home after a night of festivities can be an adventure in and of itself.

The City of Calgary is working closely with the livery industry and the Calgary Stampede to make sure you get home safely.

“Just like taxis, rideshare companies – such as Uber or TappCar – are regulated by The City of Calgary and have to meet City licensing standards before drivers can take passengers,” says Chief Livery Inspector Abdul Rafih. “However, unlike taxis, rideshare drivers are not allowed to pick up people who hail them on the street or seek out business by approaching potential customers.”

Booking a rideshare trip is easy: you just have to book a trip through a rideshare company app.

When you book your trip, make sure to look at the verification information the ride share app automatically sends you before you get in the vehicle. This information will safeguard you against getting into a vehicle with a potentially unsafe, unlicensed driver. The app includes:

• A photo of the driver
• The licence plate number, and the make and model of the vehicle
• Real time GPS tracking, which enables you to track the vehicle on route to your location

What about taxis?

If you are street-hailing a taxi, it’s just as important to verify that the taxi is legitimate before you get in.

Make sure the driver and vehicle are both licensed. Check for a taxi plate on the rear bumper of the vehicle to verify that it is a licensed taxi. The driver’s ID should be posted in a visible location, typically on the driver's visor. If you are not able to see it, you can ask to see it. Before you get into a taxi, take note of the taxi number, company and colour of the vehicle in case you need to track down lost items.

Where is the best place to hail a taxi during Stampede?

In addition to late night and permanent downtown taxi stands, four temporary stands have been set up near Stampede Park.

• Two all-hours taxi stands located at the South and North Entrances of Stampede Park operate throughout the day. The North Entrance is given priority to accessible taxi service as it provides the closest means of entering the Park.

• Two additional late-night temporary stands have been established on 12th Avenue and Macleod Trail S.E. The late-night temporary taxi stands operate every night between the hours of 8 p.m. and 3 a.m.

These locations are marked with signs, and provide safe and easily accessible points for taxis to pick-up and drop-off customers.

What other options are available for getting home safely?

Calgary Transit provides 24-hour CTrain service during Stampede.As well, limousines can be booked as a pre-arranged service. Costs are generally higher than a taxi. They cannot provide on-demand service. Always be diligent about checking ID information provided during booking before getting into the vehicle.

If you have any concerns, contact 3-1-1. If you feel as though your safety is threatened, call 9-1-1.