East Central Reporter

This Rail Safety Week, Operation Lifesaver is sharing essential tips to ensure public safety around railroad tracks.

"Freight trains don’t travel at fixed times. Schedules for passenger trains often change. Always expect a train," the organization advises.

It is important to note that all train tracks are private property, and walking on them constitutes illegal trespassing and poses significant danger. "It takes the average freight train traveling 55 mph more than a mile—the length of 18 football fields—to stop. Trains cannot stop quickly."

The sheer weight of locomotives underscores the importance of caution: "The average locomotive weighs about 400,000 pounds or 200 tons; it can weigh up to 6,000 tons. This makes the weight ratio of a car to a train proportional to that of a soda can to a car. We all know what happens to a soda can hit by a car."

Trains have absolute right of way over pedestrians and vehicles, including emergency services: "Trains have the right of way 100% of the time over pedestrians and vehicles, including police and emergency vehicles."

For safety reasons, individuals should maintain a distance from tracks: "Trains overhang tracks. Stay 15 feet back from the tracks." Additionally, even seemingly unused tracks should be approached with caution: "Always assume railroad tracks are in use, even if there are weeds or the track looks unused."

The unpredictable nature of train movement is another critical point: "Trains can move on any track, in either direction at any time. Sometimes train cars are pushed by locomotives instead of being pulled, which is especially true in commuter and light rail passenger service."

Modern trains operate more quietly than before: "Today’s trains are quieter than ever, producing no telltale 'clackety-clack.'"

Crossing railroad tracks safely requires vigilance: "Remember to cross train tracks ONLY at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings, and obey warning signs and signals posted there."

Lastly, staying alert around railroad areas is crucial: "Stay alert around railroad tracks. Refrain from texting, using headphones or other distractions that would prevent you from hearing an approaching train; never mix rails and recreation."