Are You Rail Safe?

If you happen to be a regular Metrolink rider, you are around trains almost every day. You are aware of trains arriving and departing, and you stand behind the yellow line on platforms while waiting to board. But what do you know about being rail safe when you are not on the platform? Before you get to your station, you are usually a pedestrian, even if you are just walking from your parked car to the platform. You wouldn’t think of walking down the track, but many people do. To be rail safe, never walk down a train track. Tracks are for trains only. Walking, jogging or playing on or near the tracks is trespassing and is illegal, so spread the word to your children and friends.

Also, please follow all warning signs because these signs can and do save lives. When crossing train tracks, cross only at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings. Never walk around or behind lowered crossing gates. It’s a good idea to always expect a train. Don’t cross the tracks immediately after a train passes. Many parts of Orange County have double tracks for trains. Wait to cross the tracks until the crossing gates have gone up, the lights have stopped flashing, and you can see clearly around a train in both directions.

Don’t count on the train to blow its warning horn. Quiet Zones will soon be established in residential and business areas along the train tracks, so trains will no longer need to blow their horn at every crossing. Always keep your eyes open for approaching trains. Follow these guidelines around train tracks especially if you are traveling with young children and you’ll be rail safe. For more information on rail safety, visit www.octa.net or call (714) 560-5376.