Quincy Reporter

As Rail Safety Week approaches, Operation Lifesaver has shared key safety tips to help the public stay safe around railroad tracks. The organization emphasizes the unpredictability of train schedules and the importance of always expecting a train.

"Freight trains don’t travel at fixed times. Schedules for passenger trains often change. Always expect a train," a representative from Operation Lifesaver stated.

Operation Lifesaver reminds everyone that walking on train tracks is illegal and dangerous, as all train tracks are private property. They highlight the stopping distance required for freight trains traveling at 55 mph, which exceeds one mile or 18 football fields.

"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," they noted.

The weight of locomotives, averaging about 400,000 pounds but sometimes reaching up to 6,000 tons, makes collisions particularly hazardous. "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," Operation Lifesaver explained.

Trains have absolute right of way over pedestrians and vehicles, including emergency services. Furthermore, trains often overhang their tracks by three feet or more, making it crucial to maintain a safe distance.

"Stay 15 feet back from the tracks. Always assume railroad tracks are in use, even if there are weeds or the track looks unused," they advised.

Train movements can be unpredictable as they can travel on any track in either direction at any time. Some trains are pushed rather than pulled by locomotives, especially in commuter and light rail services.

"Trains can move on any track, in either direction at any time. Sometimes train cars are pushed by locomotives instead of being pulled," Operation Lifesaver added.

Modern trains are quieter and faster than many realize, with no distinct "clackety-clack" sound often associated with older models.

"Trains are quieter and moving faster than you think – only trains belong on the tracks Today’s trains are quieter than ever," they said.

It is crucial to cross train tracks only at designated crossings and obey all posted warning signs and signals. Additionally, staying alert around railroad tracks is vital; distractions such as texting or using headphones should be avoided to hear approaching trains clearly.

"Remember to cross train tracks ONLY at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings, and obey warning signs and signals posted there," they emphasized.

"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."