Five people killed in trespassing incidents in November

This holiday season, many Canadians will once again be sharing meals with friends and family. But sadly, some will be missing loved ones around their holiday tables—all because someone wasn’t aware of the rail-safety rules.
 
In November, five Canadians lost their lives while trespassing on railway tracks or property. It’s the fourth month in a row of year-over-year increases in trespassing fatalities. And once again, trespassing deaths were trending above the five-year average in November.
 
“It’s extremely concerning to see trespassing fatalities on the rise. Even one life lost is one too many,” says Sarah Mayes, National Director of Operation Lifesaver Canada. “Each one of these deaths is a tragedy that could have been prevented—either by educating the public about the dangers of using tracks as a shortcut or a recreational path, or by ensuring that people have the supports they need to keep themselves safe.”

As we wrap up this year, and look to 2023, let’s work together to ensure all Canadians learn the rail safety rules, and obey them at all times. For a refresher, check out the resources on our website.