Stay cool this summer—but stay clear of railway bridges

Well, it’s officially summer. After months of being cooped up inside, most Canadians are longing for some summertime fun—and maybe even a little excitement. But Operation Lifesaver wants to remind people that jumping off a train bridge isn’t worth the thrill. It’s not only illegal, it’s extremely dangerous.
 
Every summer, people across the country are injured jumping off bridges into lakes, rivers and streams. Last summer, two Calgary teens were taken to hospital with minor injuries after jumping off a train bridge into the Bow River. In the summer of 2016, a 50-year-old man suffered a punctured lung and other injuries to his chest aftter jumping off a railway bridge in St. Catherine’s, Ont. The man was part of a group that was jumping 24 metres (more than 78 feet) into Twelve Mile Creek.
Find a safe place to swim
“Railway bridges are for trains, not people,” explains Sarah Mayes, National Director of Operation Lifesaver Canada. “Not only could you be injured from the impact of hitting the water, but a train could come at any time, leaving no space for you on the bridge.”
 
If the threat of injury or even death won’t deter you, perhaps a hefty fine will. Under the Railway Safety Act, those who trespass on railway bridges can face fines as high as $10,000, (although trespassing fines vary by province).
 
So, enjoy the lazy days of summer. But when you take the plunge, keep off of railway bridges. Find a safe way to beat the heat. For other life-saving tips, check out our website.