Three Canadians killed in trespassing incidents in February

March 30, 2022

Spring has finally sprung! And after two years of lockdowns and restrictions, it’s awfully nice to be able to roam more freely these days. But Operation Lifesaver wants to remind Canadians that COVID-19 isn’t the only silent threat out there.

Trains can be incredibly quiet; even though they can weigh tens of thousands of tonnes (more than 10 million kg), it can be surprisingly hard to hear a train coming down the track. So using tracks to get where you’re going can end in tragedy.

Last month, three people lost their lives trespassing on railway tracks or property. Although this number was down from five fatalities in February 2021, each one of these tragedies could have been prevented.

Staying clear of tracks is the only safe choice

Next time you’re near railway tracks, follow these simple rules to stay safe:

Never use tracks as a path or a shortcut

Only cross tracks at designated railway crossings

Always stop, listen, and look in both directions before crossing railway tracks

Keep one ear out when wearing headphones near tracks so you can hear trains

Keep off cell phones when around tracks and trains

So, get out there and enjoy everything that spring has to offer. After another long, hard winter, we all deserve it. But be rail safe—and stay alive!