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ST joins international rail operators in promoting safety at crossings

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Sound Transit, BNSF and Washington Operation Lifesaver observe International Level Crossing Day by reminding people to act safely at railroad crossings

On May 7, Sound Transit joins other passenger and freight rail organizations around the globe in marking International Level Crossing Day. The annual observance, coordinated through the International Union of Railways, seeks to educate the public about how to act safely at railroad crossings. The Sound Transit Safety Education Program in partnership with Washington Operation Lifesaver and BNSF Railroad reminds community members to Be Smart and Be Safe around Link and Sounder trains by observing the following guidelines.

Look, listen & live

  • Be alert - it's difficult to judge train distance and speed.
  • Look both ways - trains may come from either direction.
  • Listen for train horns and bells.
  • Don't use cell phones. Do remove ear buds.

Tracks are for trains

  • Don't walk, bike, skateboard, jog or play around tracks.
  • Don't take shortcuts across the tracks.
  • Don't lean over railings. Trains can overhang tracks by three feet.
  • Don't walk near a parked train. It may move without warning.

Drivers:

  • Don't wait on tracks if stuck in traffic.
  • Truck drivers - don't commit if you can't fit safely across the tracks.
  • Obey all signs and signals.

Always use crosswalks and obey all traffic signs, signals and crossing gates

  • Trains always have the right of way.
  • Never walk around or under rail crossing gates.

About Sound Transit's Safety Education Program

In partnership with Operation Lifesaver, Sound Transit shares its mission to end collisions, deaths and injuries at highway-railroad rights of way. Sound Transit offers a short, important presentation about safety around tracks and trains to your school, community center or youth program. It includes a free round-trip pass for each student and chaperone. Contact Carol Doering at 206-398-5095 or via email. To learn more visit soundtransit.org/Rider-Guide/Safety-and-Security. Online resources are also available at the following websites: