Virginia officials urge caution during train safety awareness week
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Walking, biking or playing on railroad tracks at times may seem harmless, but Virginia officials are reminding residents that those activities are both illegal and dangerous.
From Sept. 15–21, the State Corporation Commission will join Operation Lifesaver Inc. in marking See Tracks? Think Train Week, a national campaign focused on preventing tragedies at railroad tracks and crossings.
Every three hours in the United States, a person or vehicle is struck by a train, according to Operation Lifesaver. Although collisions at highway-rail grade crossings have dropped by 82% nationwide during the past 50 years, officials say more awareness is needed to prevent preventable deaths and injuries.
“Rail safety is everyone’s responsibility, whether you’re a pedestrian, passenger, photographer, motorist, bicyclist or emergency responder,” said Lauren Govoni, director of the SCC’s Division of Utility and Railroad Safety. “No matter who you are, always use caution around tracks and trains.”
The SCC’s Railroad Regulation section works alongside the Federal Railroad Administration to oversee safe rail operations in Virginia. Its duties include investigating incidents, inspecting tracks, bridges, locomotives and rail cars, and addressing complaints about blocked crossings.
This year’s awareness week will highlight daily themes such as commuter and transit safety, professional driver awareness, trespass prevention and photographer safety. The SCC will share safety information on its website and social media and partner with law enforcement and other agencies across the state.
Virginia Operation Lifesaver Coordinator Tracey Lamb, urged Virginians to be alert and know what to do in emergencies.
“If your vehicle ever stalls on the track, get out and move away; then call the number on the blue Emergency Notification System sign at the crossing or dial 9-1-1,” Lamb said.
Residents can learn more about rail safety or request educational sessions by contacting Virginia Operation Lifesaver at (804) 371-1588 or visiting the SCC’s website. For additional details, visit Operation Lifesaver.
