Rail Safety week helps to increase awareness and promotes public safety
LETHBRIDGE – The Lethbridge Police Service joined with the Canadian Pacific Police Service and other groups this week in encouraging residents to always be vigilant around railway tracks.
National Rail Safety Week wraps up today, but police offered several safety tips for people to keep in mind when dealing with rail crossings and other dangers involved with railways.
– Only cross tracks at designated crossings. Railway lines are private property and walking on them constitutes trespassing. The only safe, legal place to cross a rail line is at a marked grade crossing
– Never walk on railway bridges
– Don’t bike down or near railway tracks
– Don’t use railway tracks or the adjoining right-of-way as an ATV path
– Always keep your dog on a leash around railway property
– Every rail crossing in North America has a 24-hour toll-free emergency number posted. If you ever see something unsafe around the tracks, call immediately
– If you’re concerned about someone’s mental health and their interest in train tracks call your nearest mental health support line to get them help
– If your vehicle is stalled on the tracks get out, get away. Call the emergency number on the crossing or 911
A release states almost every one of these incidents is preventable and encourages people to always stay a safe distance from trains and off railway property and tracks.
