Railroad Safety

A train can't stop as quickly as a car. A train going 55 mph can take a mile or more to stop - that's about 20 football fields.

Because of their size, trains might look like they are moving slower than they really are.

In 2005, a total of 39 children ages 15 and under were killed in a train collision.

Quick Tips For Kids:

  • Always cross at a public railroad crossing. Crossings have a sign and most also have lights, a bell and/or gates.
  • Cross the same way you would cross the street - look left, right and left before crossing the train tracks. Listen for the train coming and for a warning bell. If there are warning lights, watch for them to flash.
  • Never try to cross the tracks if a train is coming.
  • Always walk your bike across the tracks to make sure the tires do not get caught.
  • Never walk or play on or near railroad tracks. It is dangerous.

Watch for these Railroad Signs:

Many railroad crossings have a gate with flashing lights that close when a train is coming (pictured right).

  • NEVER go around a closed railroad gate.
  • NEVER try to get across the track before the train gets there.

Some crossings which don't have gates may have this sign (pictured top left). When the lights are flashing, a train is coming. You should wait until the train or trains have passed before trying to cross the tracks.