RCMP Traffic Services would like to remind motorists, pedestrians and cyclists that it is illegal to walk, run, cycle or operate all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on railway tracks.

The only place you may cross a railway track is at an authorized railway crossing. Whenever you must cross a railway crossing, follow these safety tips:

– Look both ways and listen for warning whistles before crossing.

– Never try to beat an approaching train; this includes going around, under or through a railway gate while it is down or being lowered.

– Never stop on a track.

– Make sure you can cross the track completely before you start.

– Do not shift gears on a railway crossing. Shift down to a lower gear before crossing and change gears only after crossing the tracks.

– If you’re a pedestrian, avoid stepping onto the rail while crossing as it can be slippery. When cycling, always cross the tracks on a 90 degree angle to the rails.

“If your vehicle stalls at a crossing, immediately get everyone out of the vehicle and move quickly to a safe location at least 30 meters away in the direction of the approaching train. When the train impacts the vehicle, you will be in a safer area. Then notify the police or railway company right away,” says Sgt. Brian Herrick of RCMP Traffic Services. “It’s important to remember that a passenger train traveling at 120 km/h requires about 1.6 kilometres to stop”.

Please do your part to keep Nova Scotia roadways safe.

 

Source: http://www.bedfordbeacon.com/rcmp-remind-public-to-be-diligent-at-railway-crossings