What’s the rush? This holiday season take it slow—and stay safe

It seems everyone is in a hurry these days—and it’s especially true at this time of year. It’s hard not get caught up in the holiday rush. People are running around trying to get their shopping done, trying to fit in all of the holiday parties, or preparing to leave on vacation. But at what cost?
 
Sometimes trying to get somewhere in a hurry can have devastating consequences, especially when trains and tracks are involved. Too often, Canadians are injured, or even killed, breaking the rail safety rules—all in the hopes of saving a few minutes.
 
In early December, a 21-year-old man from Hamilton, Ont. lost both his legs after he tried to crawl under a train that was blocking a crossing. The train started to move before the man was able to clear the tracks. Unfortunately, incidents like this are far too common.

Slow it down, and stay safe

So, this holiday season, forget the rush. Follow these rail safety rules, and make sure you get where you need to go in one piece.

• Keep Off Railway Property and Equipment: Railway yards, tunnels, bridges and equipment are all private property. If you are caught trespassing on them, you could be fined up to $50,000—or worse, you could lose a limb or your life.
• Obey All Railway Signs and Signals:  Warning signals and signs are there for a reason, to save lives. So, obey them!
• Never Go Around a Lowered Crossing Gate: An activated gate means a train is coming.
• Never Try to Beat a Train: Trains are much faster than you think. They are also unable to stop in time to save you.
• Only Use Designated Railway Crossings: Trying to cross tracks anywhere else could be deadly.
• Stay Off the Tracks: Never walk, cycle or drive on or along railway tracks—and never use them as a shortcut or a recreational path.

Check out our website for other resources to help you and your loved ones stay safe this holiday season. Saving a few minutes isn’t worth your life!