Tips to avoid tragedies on commuter platforms

As more Canadians make the move back into the office, many are depending on commuter railways to get them to and from work each day. Commuter trains are not only an efficient way to get to work, they’re also a more sustainable way to travel. But whether you’re heading to work, school, or just out for a day of shopping, getting where you are going safely is a priority.

Sadly, rail tragedies can happen, especially when commuters stand too close to the platform edge. Last week, a man died at a LRT station in Calgary. According to witnesses, the man fell onto the tracks and was struck by the train. In April 2015, a 31-year-old man was killed by a commuter train while walking along a platform at Toronto’s Union Station. The man was pulled onto the tracks when his backpack got caught on a passing train.

Brush up on these rules to stay safe

But there are some things you can do to stay safe when commuting by rail. It’s important to always spread out along the platform to avoid overcrowding in one section. It’s also critical that you wait for trains to come to a complete stop before moving forward to board them. And be sure to keep personal articles, such as backpacks and purses, in your hands and away from the platform edge.

Here are some other important safety tips to keep in mind throughout your commute: 
 
  • Stand well behind the platform edge or the yellow safety line painted along the edge
  • Keep a close eye on children whenever waiting for a train
  • When boarding, be careful of any gaps between the platform and the train
  • Always enter or exit stations at designated areas
  • Never cross in front of or behind a stopped train
  • Always be aware of your surroundings when waiting on a platform
  • If you drop an item on the tracks, do not attempt to retrieve it

For more tips on how to stay safe while commuting, check out our resources on our website.