This week, Sept. 15-19, is National Rail Safety Week.
Both CN and CPKC have launched campaigns to raise awareness about the risks of unsafe behaviour around railway tracks and property.
“Rail safety isn’t just about big moments; it’s about the small safe choices we make every day. Each time you response the signs and signals around tracks and railway property, you’re helping keep your community stronger and safer,” said Shawn Will, chief of police and chief security officer at CN. “Rail safety is a shared responsibility, and together we all play a role in protecting live.”
To stay safe around railway tracks, remember to:
- never walk or take photos along the train tracks
- cross tracks only at designated locations
- always look for and obey signals
- wait for trains to pass by completely
- never try to sneak across the tracks ahead of an approaching train
“Every incident, every injury, every death related to trespassing is preventable – our goal is to get to zero,” said Chris Day, National Director of Operation Lifesaver Canada.
“As we have work to do to get there, Rail Safety Week is an opportunity for us to remind Canadians that rail safety is a shared responsibility. We all have a role to play. When it comes to a person versus a train, there is no undo button.”
According to CN officials, last year 261 railway crossing incidents occurred across Canada, resulting in 68 fatalities and 58 serious injuries.
