Over the past five years, an average of 126 people were seriously injured or killed each year after being struck at rail crossings or while trespassing on railway tracks across Canada. Many of these injuries and fatalities were entirely preventable.
Rail Safety Week, which runs from Monday, April 25 to May 1, is a good time to remind ourselves about safe behaviour around tracks and trains.
Here are four tips to always keep in mind:
1. Never try to beat the train – Once the lights and crossing arms activate at a rail crossing, you may wonder if you have time to get through. The truth is, once the lights go off, that window has already passed. Keep your distance from the tracks and wait for the train to pass – it’s not worth the risk to try to beat the train.
2. Always Expect a Train – If you don’t see a train at a crossing, it doesn’t mean one isn’t approaching. Always listen for warning bells and whistles, and check both ways before crossing. When walking or biking, make sure to remove your headphones and keep an eye on your children. When in your car, open the window and turn down distracting fans and music until the crossing is safely cleared.
3. Obey All Warning Signs and Signals – Pay close attention for crossbuck signs that indicate a crossing. Some busier crossings also have lights and bells or gates. Never drive around lowered gates – it’s illegal and dangerous. If you suspect a signal is malfunctioning, call the 1-800 number posted on or near the crossing signal or the police.
4. Respect Private Property – Railway tracks may look like a great place to ride your bike or take a walk, but trespassing on the railway private property is illegal and unsafe. An average freight train travelling at 100 km/h requires more than a kilometer to stop. That’s the length of 11 football fields.
Transport Canada’s inspectors perform more than 33,000 audits and inspections a year on crossings, locomotives, rail cars, tracks, equipment, right-of-ways, and all other aspects of railway operations.
These inspectors also work with local governments and residents to verify railway crossings have visible signage, crossing lights, bells, and gates.