Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Encourages Soccer Fans to Make Safe Choices Around Tracks and Trains

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 19, 2026 – With millions of soccer fans traveling to stadiums across the U.S. for this summer’s international soccer tournament, Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) encourages everyone to include rail safety in their planning and always make safe choices around tracks and trains.

Fans may encounter tracks and trains in different ways at the 11 tournament host cities across the U.S. No matter the location, what is consistent at every venue is the importance of recognizing rail signs and signals and using this information to help save lives.

“Every 3 hours in the United States a person or vehicle is hit by a train. Being prepared and knowing how to make safe choices around tracks and trains is critically important, especially given the thousands of people who are expected to attend tournament games and related events,” said OLI Executive Director Rachel Maleh. “We encourage the public to review and share this rail safety education information with all those who will be enjoying these celebrations. By doing so, we can help #STOPTrackTragedies.”

Whether attending a match in person, hosting a game watch with friends or celebrating with fellow soccer fans, OLI urges everyone to practice safety every time they encounter tracks and trains.

Safety Tips for Drivers

1. Follow the signs and signals – Never try to beat a train. Stop at the crossing when lights are flashing and the gate is lowering. Trains can come at any time, from either direction. Multiple tracks may mean multiple trains. Ensure you can clearly see down the tracks in both directions before proceeding.
2. Stuck on the tracks? Find the Blue and White Sign – If your vehicle gets stuck or stalls on the tracks, immediately get out and get safely away, even if you don’t see a train. Call the number on the Blue and White Emergency Notification System (ENS) Sign and share the crossing ID number with the dispatcher. No sign? Call 911.
3. Know your vehicle’s size – Ensure there is enough space for your vehicle to clear the tracks before proceeding through a crossing. Leave at least 15 feet between the front and rear of your vehicle and the nearest rail. 
4. Eliminate distractions – Trains are faster and quieter than you think. 

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

1. Cross only at designated crossings – The only safe and legal place to cross tracks is at designated public crossings. Wait to cross until you can see clearly in both directions and never go around or under lowered gates. Obey all railroad signs and signals.
2. Always expect a train – Stay alert around tracks and on platforms. Trains can run on any track, at any time, from either direction. They are faster and quieter than you think.
3. Stay off. Stay away. Stay safe. – Walking on or beside railroad tracks is illegal and dangerous. Trains overhang tracks. Stay off railroad bridges and trestles and out of railroad tunnels. There is only room for the train.
4. Eliminate distractions – Remove headphones and earbuds and put away cell phones when around tracks and trains. Always expect a train.

Safety Tips for Transit Riders

1. Follow the signs and signals – Stand back from the platform edge, behind the painted or raised markings. Trains overhang tracks. Never run or ride scooters, skateboards or bicycles in a station.
2. Stay off the tracks – Never walk next to or in between the rails. High voltage electrical power can run underground on a third rail or above trains. If you drop an item on the tracks, do not attempt to retrieve it. Notify transit personnel.
3. Eliminate distractions – Remove headphones or earbuds and put away your cell phone when walking near or crossing tracks. Trains are faster and quieter than you think.
4. Cross legally and safely – Cross only at designated crossings. Observe signs, signals and pavement markings. Always expect a train.

Take the rail safety pledge and find additional information at oli.org.

About Operation Lifesaver

Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is a national #RailSafetyEducation nonprofit dedicated to stopping track tragedies through public awareness and education campaigns as well as a national volunteer network that gives free presentations encouraging safe behavior near tracks and trains. OLI supports the efforts of 47 state programs and the District of Columbia in sharing the rail safety education message. Visit oli.org to learn more, take a rail safety pledge, request free presentations, volunteer and explore OLI's virtual library of rail safety education materials. Follow OLI on social media via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, X and YouTube.