Each year CN Police officers spread a rail safety message across B.C. Communities built around railway lines, such as those in the North Thompson Valley, from Kamloops to Valemount, are also annually reminded to be mindful and stay safe when it comes to trains and railway tracks.
This year CN’s safety message has become even more important as numerous members of the public embrace outdoor walking, hiking, and biking due to social distancing during the current pandemic.
In North America last year there were over 3,400 collisions with trains, resulting in over 2,200 serious injuries or fatalities.
CN says rail safety is “a core value” of their organization, with the CN Police being an active part efforts made to minimize the risk of accidents that occur when members of the public trespass onto railway property.
Keeping pedestrians safe when near railway tracks or property is important is a major part of the job for CN Police, who continue reminding everyone how important it is “to remember the only safe and legal place to cross train tracks is at a railway crossing”.
Railway yards, train tracks, tunnels and bridges are all the private property of CN. Walking or biking along railway tracks or taking a shortcut across rail tracks is dangerous and illegal, trespassers can face a fine, or worse – it could cost them their life.
“Safety is a core value at CN and we want to take every opportunity to raise awareness on safe behaviour around rail,” says Inspector Rob Dixon, CN Police Canada – Pacific Division, “It is our job to make sure that people know that trespassing is not only illegal, it can be fatal. It is important for CN Police officers to engage the population on the dangers related to a railway incident. We want everyone to Be Rail Smart: “Stop. Look. Listen. Live.”
Here are some safety tips to remember when in the area of railways and rail yards:
• Railway yards, tunnels and bridges are all private property.
• Railway tunnels and bridges are only slightly wider than the rails, leaving little to no room for a person if a train does come along.
• Always cross railway tracks at designated crossings.
• Obey all railway signs and warning devices, such as lights, bells and gates.
• Trains can overhang the tracks by as much as a metre so keep your distance.
• Call 911 to notify local emergency responders if you see an emergency on the tracks.
• Be rail-smart: Stop. Look. Listen. Live.
For additional safety tips or other information regarding rail safety or CN Police, follow this link: https://www.cn.ca/en/safety/cn-police-service/