WASHINGTON, D.C. — Operation Lifesaver Inc. is reminding farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers across the country to exercise caution around railroad tracks and trains as harvest season gets underway.
The rail safety nonprofit launched its annual awareness campaign Tuesday, encouraging members of the agricultural community to review and share safety practices designed to prevent collisions involving trains, farm equipment and vehicles.
According to Operation Lifesaver, a person or vehicle is struck by a train every three hours in the United States. The organization said increased activity during harvest season can lead to more interactions between agricultural equipment and railroad crossings.
“Trains crisscross the entire country, making rail safety education important for everyone, including farmers, ranchers and other agricultural workers,” said OLI Executive Director Rachel Maleh. “All year, but especially during the busy harvest season, staying alert around tracks and trains and making safe choices is vital. We encourage everyone to review these safety tips and share them within the agricultural community to help prevent incidents.”
Operation Lifesaver noted there are more than 200,000 railroad crossings nationwide, making it likely that many agricultural workers will encounter tracks while transporting equipment, crops and supplies.
The organization warns that misjudging the speed of an approaching train or the time needed to safely cross tracks can have serious consequences. Trains can travel in either direction on any track and do not operate on fixed schedules.
Among the safety recommendations provided by Operation Lifesaver are crossing only at designated railroad crossings, yielding to trains at all times, ensuring vehicles and equipment completely clear tracks before crossing, securing loads properly and minimizing distractions while driving near railroad tracks.
The organization also encourages operators of low-clearance vehicles to confirm they can safely navigate crossings without becoming stuck.
“We are grateful to America’s farmers, who help feed us,” said Maleh. “By knowing and implementing these critical rail safety practices, they can continue their important work while ensuring the safety of themselves and others.”
Operation Lifesaver also reminded motorists and equipment operators that if a vehicle becomes stuck on railroad tracks, occupants should immediately exit the vehicle, move away from the tracks and call the emergency number listed on the blue and white Emergency Notification System sign located at the crossing. If no sign is present, individuals should call 911.
