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Reminder: Trespassing on railway tracks is dangerous and illegal

It is an offense to trespass on railway property and can result in a fine of $115.
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An Okanagan train track connects the viewer to what lies around the bend and beyond. (Carol Schroeder/ for the Morning Star)

Now that the hunting season has begun in many communities, CN Police Service would like to remind the public that trespassing on railway tracks/ property to access hunting or fishing locations is not only dangerous as it can result in significant risk of injury and death, but it is illegal.

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Under the Railway Safety Act of Canada, section 26.1 it is an offence for any person to trespass on railway property and can result in a fine of $115.

Police are hoping to remind people to also please remember that driving an ATV, snowmobile or other off-road vehicle is a great way to enjoy Canada’s outdoors if you do it safely. Off-road vehicles and railway tracks aren’t a good combination.

“Be aware of your surroundings and look, listen, live,” wrote police media relations manager Jonathan Abecassis.

Statistics- In 2017, more than 222 accidents occurred in Canada, resulting in 72 fatalities and 44 serious injuries.

Safety tips:

* Only cross railway tracks as designated public/ pedestrian crossings

* Obey the railway crossing control devices and do not attempt to “beat the train’

* Before walking across any railway crossing, look both ways, listen and only proceed over the crossing when it is safe to do so.

Related: CN Police, Vernon RCMP blitz railroad crossing violations

Related: Okanagan Rail Trail to officially open

Related: Okanagan family grants uncle’s last wish

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