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On Labor Day, Operation Lifesaver Urges the Public to “See Tracks - Think Train"

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See the release online: http://bit.ly/15cGr7F

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: DEQUENDRE BERTRAND - 703-739-0284, CAROL STECKBECK - 919-303-5140, - NEWS@OLI.ORG

ALEXANDRIA, Va. —As millions of Americans take to the road this Labor Day weekend, rail safety education nonprofit Operation Lifesaver, Inc. reminds people to use caution when around tracks and trains. Across the United States, AAA estimates that more than 34 million people will travel 50 miles or more during the Labor Day weekend, a 4.2 percent increase compared to 2012. Operation Lifesaver encourages drivers and pedestrians to be safe while traveling near or passing through rail crossings or tracks across the nation.

"Approximately every three hours across the U.S., a person or vehicle is hit by a train," said Joyce Rose, president and CEO of Operation Lifesaver. "We have a simple message for all travelers: see tracks, think train—because it could save your life." 

Rose noted that preliminary Federal Railroad Administration statistics from January through May of this year show a 4.5 percent increase in collisions between vehicles and trains at highway-rail grade crossings and a 3.5 percent increase in pedestrian rail trespass casualties over the same period in 2012.

"We are concerned about these increases in rail-related incidents in 2013," she continued. "Following our safety tips will help motorists and pedestrians stay safe this Labor Day weekend—and every day."

Operation Lifesaver's Top Five "See Tracks, Think Train" Safety Tips

1. The only safe, and legal, place to cross railroad tracks is at a public crossing—designated by advance warning signs, crossbucks, signal lights and/or gates.

2. Look both ways and listen before crossing train tracks. Expect a train at any time.

3. Anywhere other than a public crossing, stay off and away from the tracks.

4. Using electronic devices and smart phones near train tracks could prove deadly, whether on foot or driving. Trains are quieter than you think, go faster than they appear, and do not run on set schedules.

5. Tracks, trestles, rail yards and equipment are private property. If you walk, hunt, fish or ride your ATV on the tracks, you are trespassing. You could lose your life or be seriously injured.

About Operation Lifesaver, Inc.

Operation Lifesaver's mission is to end collisions, deaths and injuries at highway-rail grade crossings and along railroad rights of way. A national network of trained volunteers provides free presentations on rail safety. Learn more at http://www.oli.org; follow OLI on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.     

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education operation lifesaver pedestrian safety railroad crossing safety rail safety education Joyce Rose

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