Released September 21, 2020
WEYBURN – Every year, more than 2,100 North Americans are killed or seriously injured in railway crossing and trespassing incidents. Almost all of these incidents are preventable – but that starts with knowing how to act safely around tracks and trains.
“Rail Safety Week is about bringing awareness that dangerous activity on the railway can affect you for the rest of your life. Incidents can happen in a split-second and have tragic and far-reaching consequences. Conversations about safety could save someone you love from making a horrible mistake,” said Al Sauve, Chief of Canadian Pacific Police Service.
The #STOPTrackTragedies campaign tells the personal stories of those affected by railway crossing and trespassing incidents: victims, friends and family members, locomotive engineers and first responders. You can listen to their stories online at www.operationlifesaver.ca/initiatives/campaigns/stop-track-tragedies/.
You can stay safe around railway tracks and trains by following some simple rules:
- Stay off the tracks.
Trains are faster than you think. You won’t necessarily hear or feel one coming if you’re waking along the tracks. And by the time you do, it might be too late.
- Use designated railway crossings.
These are put up to help you cross the tracks safely. When you choose to cross somewhere else you’re putting your life on the line.
- Obey all signs and signals.
There are many railways signs and warning devices, such as lights, bells and gates, to tell you when a train is coming or where and when you should cross. Following their directions will keep you safe.
- Stay alert and keep your distance.
The best way to avoid being hit by a train is to stay out of its path. That means paying attention (put your phone down and if you’re wearing headphones leave #OneEarOut!) when you’re near tracks and trains so that you can hear and see the warnings. At crossings, keep a distance of at least 5m from the tracks so that you’re out of harm’s way when a train passes. At stations, stand well behind the platform’s edge or safety line.
You can find more rail safety tips and resources at operationlifesaver.ca and by following OL on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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