City reminding residents to be cautious around railways during 2019 Rail Safety Week

HAMILTON, ON – Approximately 2,100 North Americans are killed or injured in railway crossing and trespassing related incidents every year. This week, the City of Hamilton is marking Rail Safety Week and is reminding residents of the dangers of crossing or trespassing on railway tracks.

This year Hamilton launched the, “Look. Listen. Live” Community Safety Partnership Program with Canadian Pacific (CP), Canadian Pacific Police Service (CPPS) and Operational Lifesaver. Pedestrians will now see bright yellow sidewalk decals at four level rail crossings that remind commuters to be situationally aware around railway property.

In honour of Rail Safety Week, the City is reminding residents how they stay informed and can play a role in making railway crossings safe.

Safety tips

• Speed misperception: Because of their size, trains appear to be much further away and travelling much slower than their actual speed. Don’t be fooled!
• Trains can't stop quickly: Trains can require over 2 kilometres to stop. Trains can stop, but they can’t stop quickly.
• Railway cars: Stopped railway cars can start at any time. If you’re on one or near one when it moves, you could lose a limb, or your life.
• Overhang: Trains can carry loads that are wider than the railway cars themselves. They can have chains, straps or other equipment swinging loose from the train. If you are standing too close, you could get hit.
• Anytime is train time: Trains do not always run on a schedule. They can run at any time on any track and come from either direction.

Additional resources

• LookListenLive.ca
• https://www.operationlifesaver.ca/