Operation Lifesaver Releases Common Sense Rail Safety Tips For the Independence Day Holiday Weekend
WASHINGTON, DC, June 29, 2009 – Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) reminds Americans to use caution when around tracks and trains this Independence Day holiday weekend.
“Trains are still operating, even on the holiday,” says OLI President Helen M. Sramek, “so it’s important to watch out for trains if you are driving near highway-rail grade-crossings or walking near the tracks this Fourth of July weekend.” Motorists should not park on or near train tracks when attending local parades or fireworks displays, and refrain from using cell phones, texting or using MP3 players when near the tracks.
“Approximately every two hours across the U.S., a person or vehicle is hit by a train,” says Sramek. “Operation Lifesaver has a simple message for Americans: staying away from the tracks is using common sense, and it may save your life.” Visit the Common Sense campaign website: www.CommonSenseuseIt.com.
Common Sense Safety Tips around Tracks and Trains
1. The only safe, and legal, place to cross railroad tracks is at a public crossing—designated by the crossbuck.
2. Turn your cell phone and MP3 players off when you’re near train tracks. Forget texting, as it could be a deadly distraction near the tracks. Trains are quieter than you think, go faster than they appear, and do not run on set schedules.
3. Look both ways and listen before crossing train tracks. Expect a train at any time.
4. Anywhere other than a public crossing, stay off and away from the tracks.
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
Operation Lifesaver, Inc. is a national, non-profit safety education group whose goal is to eliminate deaths and injuries at railroad crossings and along railroad rights of way. Operation Lifesaver has programs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. For more safety tips or to schedule a free safety presentation in your community, click on www.oli.org.
