Metro Transit Police say they are well aware of the uptick in thefts of electronic devices like iPods and smart phones on the Metrorail system. Reports of such robberies went way up in 2009, with 894, compared to 581 in 2008. This year, there were 122 reported robberies on the Metro system in January alone.

In an effort to stem the tide of robberies, transit police have released an online video and a list of tips to help riders avoid putting themselves in a situation where they might be more likely to be a victim.

“These types of crimes are often crimes of opportunity,” says Metro Transit Police Acting Chief Jeri Lee.

Among their recommendations:

• Always be alert of your surroundings and the people around you.
• Carry electronic devices in a pocket or a place where it is not easily seen or easy to reach.
• Keep the volume of your music player at a low to moderate level so that you can hear what’s going on around you.
• When using an electronic device, avoid sitting or standing near doors of rail cars or buses.
• Report any suspicious activity to a Metro employee or call the Metro Transit Police at 202-962-2121.