WASHINGTON, D.C. — As families across the country prepare for Halloween and other fall activities, Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is reminding the public to stay alert and practice safety near railroad tracks. The nonprofit rail safety organization urges everyone to “Stay Off! Stay Away! Stay Safe!” when it comes to trains and tracks.
With more than 140,000 miles of track and over 200,000 roadway crossings nationwide, OLI officials say it’s likely that people will encounter tracks and trains while attending seasonal events such as football games, hayrides, and trick-or-treating.
“We urge the public to always make safe choices around tracks and trains and remember, whenever you See Tracks? Think Train®!” said OLI Executive Director Rachel Maleh. “Fall festivals, Halloween and other outdoor events often mean walking, biking and driving at dusk or after dark. Costumes can be loose, bulky or block vision and hearing. And, you may find yourself visiting unfamiliar neighborhoods.
“This is an important time to remind your family and friends to stay alert and always make safe choices,” Maleh continued.
OLI offers the following rail safety tips for the fall season:
- Always expect a train at any crossing, at any time, and in either direction. Trains are quieter, faster and may be closer than they appear.
- Only cross tracks at designated crossings and obey all signs, signals and gates. Walking or biking on or beside railroad tracks is illegal and dangerous — stay at least 15 feet away.
- Wait, look and listen. Costumes can muffle sound and limit visibility, and groups can cause distractions. Stay alert near crossings.
- Plan your route ahead of time. When possible, walk — don’t ride — across tracks, especially if pushing a stroller or wheelchair.
- Never try to beat a train or go around lowered gates or flashing lights. Trains take more than a mile — the length of 18 football fields — to stop.
- Avoid trestles and tunnels. There’s only room for the train.
- If your vehicle stalls on the tracks — get out immediately. Find the blue and white Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign, call the number listed, and provide the crossing ID number. If the sign isn’t visible, dial 911.
“Reminding kids and adults about walking, riding and driving safely around tracks and trains can #STOPTrackTragedies,” Maleh said. “When preparing for Halloween and fall activities, include a review of rail safety. Remember, tracks are only for trains, not trick-or-treaters!”
For more information on rail safety and educational resources, visit oli.org.
