What are the safety rules around railroad tracks?

Playing Chicken with a Train: Why Railroad Safety Matters

The rhythmic clang of a distant train, the powerful rumble vibrating through the ground – the allure of the railway can be captivating. But behind that romantic image lies a stark reality: railroads are inherently dangerous places, and trespassing can have fatal consequences. Ignoring safety rules around railroad tracks isn’t a gamble you can afford to take; it’s a death sentence waiting to happen.

High-speed trains and massive freight cars are not easily stopped. Unlike a car, which can brake relatively quickly, these behemoths require vast distances to decelerate, often exceeding the length of several football fields. Even if a train driver sees you, reacting in time to prevent a collision is often impossible. The sheer momentum of a train moving at speed is devastating. Forget the notion of jumping out of the way – the impact is almost always fatal.

Therefore, the cardinal rule of railroad safety is unequivocally this: Never trespass on railway property. This means staying off the tracks, staying off the right-of-way (the land owned by the railway company flanking the tracks), and staying away from any railway infrastructure, including bridges, tunnels, and switching yards. These areas are not playgrounds, hiking trails, or shortcuts. They are active transportation corridors with lethal potential.

If you need to cross railroad tracks, do so only at designated crossings. These crossings are equipped with safety features such as gates, signals, and warning bells – for a reason. Before crossing:

• Stop: Completely halt your vehicle or your own movement.
• Look: Carefully look both ways, and not just once. Ensure no train is approaching from either direction. Remember, you might not hear a train coming until it’s too late, especially in areas with noise pollution.
• Listen: Listen attentively for the sound of an approaching train. This can provide crucial extra seconds of warning.
• Obey Signals: Strictly adhere to all signals at the crossing. If the gates are down or lights are flashing, wait patiently until they clear before proceeding. Never attempt to beat a train across the tracks.

Your life depends on it. This isn’t hyperbole; it’s a stark truth. The consequences of ignoring these simple safety rules are catastrophic and irreversible. Respect the power and danger of the railway. Stay safe, stay alive. Choose to live, not to play a deadly game of chance.