What is 'pre-trip briefing' for passenger transport and why is it important?

A pre-trip safety briefing tells passengers where the emergency exits are, where the first aid kit and fire extinguisher are located, the rules about smoking and use of safety belts, and what to do in an emergency. Companies and agencies often require briefings on charter trips, motorcoaches, and certain scheduled services. The briefing increases the chance that passengers can act correctly in an incident — knowing where the rear exit is, for example, makes evacuation much faster. The briefing typically takes 30-60 seconds and is delivered before departure or shortly after starting the trip. Like airline safety announcements, it serves a real protective function even when passengers seem inattentive.