During Rail Safety Month in September, OCTA is highlighting its year-round efforts to promote rail safety and remind Orange County residents of the importance of staying alert around active rail lines.
More than 110 freight and passenger trains move through Orange County each day, making rail safety awareness important for everyone who lives, works or spends time in the county.
Stay Safe: Six Things to Know
Eyes Up. Look and Listen.
Look both ways and listen before crossing the tracks. Expect a train at any time and from either direction. Trains can be quieter than expected and may not always sound their horns.
Eyes Up. Phone Down.
Avoid distractions such as texting, loud music or headphones that could prevent you from seeing or hearing an approaching train.
Stand Back. Look Around.
At train stations, always stay behind the designated safety line and enter or exit platforms only in designated areas.
Keep Out. Stay Away.
Train tracks, bridges and rail yards are private property. Never walk, bike, skateboard or run on or along the tracks. Cross only at designated rail crossings.
Stop and Wait.
Never try to beat a train. Trains can travel faster and be closer than they appear, and it can take about a mile for a train to stop. Wait until crossing gates are fully raised and lights have stopped flashing before proceeding. Another train may be approaching from the opposite direction.
See Something? Say Something.
To report suspicious packages, activity or security concerns, call or text Metrolink’s Security Operations Center at (866) 640-5190. For criminal or life-threatening emergencies, call 911.
Visit OCTA’s Rail Safety page to learn more about staying safe around trains, tracks and rail crossings.