CN Police officers are spreading a rail safety message in Prince George. Last year in North America, there were over 3,400 collisions with trains, resulting in over 2,200 serious injuries or fatalities. Rail safety is a core value at CN, and CN Police want to be a part of the effort to minimize the risk of accidents related to the act of trespassing on railway property.
CN Police officers want pedestrians to stay safe when near railway tracks or property, it is important to remember that the only safe and legal place to cross train tracks is at a railway crossing. Railway yards, train tracks, tunnels and bridges are private property.
Walking or biking along railway tracks or taking a shortcut across tracks is dangerous and illegal, and trespassers could face a fine or worst it could cost them their life. CN Police will be on patrol in your community and wants to send a strong safety reminder not to trespass on railway tracks or property.
“Safety is a core value at CN and we want to take every opportunity to raise awareness on safe behaviour around rail,” said Const. Talvio, CN Police Canada, Pacific Division. “It is our job to make sure that everyone knows 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.”
Safety tips for your audience:
- 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/