Collisions with trains don't need to happen, yet each year, drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and others put their lives at risk.
In fact, seven people died in Alberta last year from collisions with trains, with another three sustaining serious injuries. And those numbers aren't getting better. Already this year, from January to June, an average of 10 Canadians per month have been seriously hurt or killed at crossings – included in those statistics are six deaths here in Alberta, and four serious injuries.
From irresponsible social media stunts to simply being unaware of surroundings, track tragedies are far too common. That's why local officials are joining Operation Lifesaver and others across the country for the 21st annual Rail Safety Week: it's time to Stop Track Tragedies.
Whether you're on foot, in a car or riding a bike or recreational vehicle, when you're around railway tracks or property, staying safe is about staying alert and knowing the rules:
- Stay off the tracks – Never walk, cycle or drive along railway tracks. An optical illusion means that trains are usually a lot closer than they seem and travelling much faster. Trains can go as fast as 160 km/h and can take up to 2 kilometres to to stop completely – that’s the length of 18 football fields!
- Keep off railway property – Railway yards, tunnels and bridges are all private property, and beyond being illegal to trespass (bringing fines as high as $50,000), it’s also extremely dangerous. "Railway tunnels and bridges are only slightly wider than the rails, leaving little or no room for you if a train does come along," notes the Operation Lifesaver team.
- Use designated railway crossings – Trying to cross railway tracks outside of designated crossings could be deadly. Remember, trains can come at any time, from either direction, on any track, and don’t always run on a set schedule.
- Obey all railway signs and signals – Railway signs and warning devices, such as lights, bells and gates, are there to keep you safe. Before crossing, look both ways and listen for approaching trains. If a train is coming, or warning signals are activated, stop behind gates or stop lines – or no closer than 5 metres away from the nearest rail – and wait for the train to pass. Cross only after the warning signals have ceased and you're certain no other trains are approaching.
- Stay alert – Today’s trains are extremely quiet, so don’t be distracted by cell phones or other devices when near railway lines. Although trains sound their whistles at most crossings, or in case of an emergency, you won’t hear the warning if you're wearing headphones.
- Keep your distance – Trains can overhang the tracks by as much as 1 metre on each side, and can carry loads wider than the cars themselves, however, getting too close to the tracks also puts you at risk of getting hit by chains, straps or other equipment swinging loose.
It's not only pedestrians, cyclists and ATVers at risk of trail collisions. New drivers, commercial drivers, food delivery and rideshare drivers, agricultural and other heavy machinery operators all can play a part. Consider that a train hitting a car is like a car running over a pop can – the average freight train weighs more than 5.5 million kilograms; a car weighs only about 1,375 kg.
To learn more, including how to keep you and your family safe, visit operationlifesaver.ca