RCMP and CN Police promote Rail Safety Week

This annual week-long event is a collaboration between Operation LifeSaver and rail safety partners across Canada, the US, and Mexico.

From Sept. 20-26, RCMP and CN Police officers will be at highway-rail grade crossings throughout the educational campaign to engage the public with the aim of changing attitudes and behaviours towards safety and railroad rights-of-way.

According to the Rail Safety campaign, over 2,100 people are injured or killed annually in crossing and trespassing incidents in North America.

While more than 50% of these collisions happen at crossings equipped with lights and/or gates.

“In partnership with fellow law enforcement agencies our goal is to prevent injuries and fatalities along the railroads in our communities,” said Sergeant Dennis Bell of Chilliwack RCMP.

Railroad safety tips for motorists:

• Slow down when approaching a railroad crossing;

• Do not cross the track until the rail crossing lights stop flashing, the warning bell stops ringing and the train has passed;

• Never race to cross a track in front of an oncoming train.

Pedestrians:

• Never walk, cycle, drive along or on railroad tracks and trestles.

Learn more about Rail Safety Week here.

This officer knows that every grade crossing and railroad-related incident is preventable. Today, law enforcement agencies across the U.S. and Canada are sharing our #railsafety messages for #OperationClearTrack. #RailSafetyWeek #STOPTrackTragedies pic.twitter.com/qYiGlHXnHt

— Operation Lifesaver (@olinational) September 21, 2021