Statement by OLI Executive Director Rachel Maleh on International Level Crossing Awareness Day 2021
June 9, 2021 – Rachel Maleh, Executive Director of Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI), released the following statement today ahead of the worldwide observance of International Level Crossing Awareness Day (ILCAD):
“United States rail safety and education non-profit Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is proud to participate in the 13th annual International Level Crossing Awareness Day (ILCAD) on June 10. More than 40 countries, including the United States, observe ILCAD to call worldwide attention to the important issue of safety at railroad crossings.
“This year’s ILCAD focuses on the role distractions can play in crossing and pedestrian rail incidents. Our “Near Miss” campaign for pedestrians and distraction video for new drivers underscore the importance of avoiding distraction near railroad tracks and trains.
“OLI and its programs in states throughout the U.S. are proud to be part of this year’s observance. I am pleased to join safety leaders from around the world at this year’s virtual ILCAD launch conference on June 10 to discuss efforts to educate drivers and pedestrians about staying safe at crossings and near railroad rights-of-way.
“For 13 years, ILCAD has focused attention on the preventable incidents that occur at railroad crossings throughout the world. OLI is proud to have been part of this safety campaign since it began in in 2009.”
OLI has safety tips and resources for all ages at oli.org and offers free safety presentations across the nation.
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About Operation Lifesaver
Operation Lifesaver is a nonprofit public safety education and awareness organization dedicated to reducing collisions, fatalities and injuries at highway-rail crossings and preventing trespassing on or near railroad tracks. A national network of trained volunteers gives free presentations on rail safety and a public awareness campaign, “See Tracks? Think Train!” provides tips and statistics to encourage safe behavior near the tracks. OLI leads an international observance of Rail Safety Week each September. Learn more about Rail Safety Week; follow OLI on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest.
