Throughout September, OCTA is reinforcing its ongoing commitment to rail safety by educating residents about the hazards of active rail lines and the importance of safe behaviors near train tracks. Some key safety tips include:
- Stay alert near railroad tracks. Avoid distractions such as texting, using headphones, or anything else that may prevent you from noticing an approaching train.
- Always expect a train. Trains can travel in either direction at any time, day or night.
- Stay off railroad property. Entering rail property—including tracks, bridges, tunnels, and signal equipment—is highly dangerous and illegal.
- Cross only at designated crossings. Never walk, bike, skateboard, or run along tracks. Safe, legal crossings are the only places where it’s permitted to cross.
- Never try to beat a train. Trains are often closer and move faster than they appear. Always wait until gates are raised and warning lights have stopped flashing before crossing.
- Stand back and stay aware at stations. Always remain behind the safety line on train platforms and use designated areas when entering or exiting.
During Rail Safety Month, community members are encouraged to build safe habits that will help them stay safe near railroad tracks. Those who pledge to be rail safe will be entered into a raffle for Metrolink tickets, with a drawing taking place at a community event in Santa Ana on September 18.
California leads the U.S. in rail-related fatalities, particularly from trespassing and grade crossing incidents, due to its extensive rail system and the high number of people living and recreating near tracks.
Learn more about rail safety here.