‘See Tracks, Think Train’ Safety Week

The week of Sept. 14-20 is See Tracks, Think Train Week, formerly known as Rail Safety Week, and the Las Cruces Police Department is offering tips to help stay safe while passing or commuting near railroad tracks.

Tragically, a person or vehicle is struck by a train every three hours in the U.S.

Operation Livesaver Inc., GoRail New Mexico and partners across the rail industry are raising awareness about safety near railroad tracks and trains. LCPD, along with rail industry partners, are providing these tips to help keep you safe:

• Always stay alert. Watch and listen for trains and stay clear of tracks when trains are approaching.
• Never walk, run, play or stand near railroad tracks and rail bridges. Railroad tracks and trains are private property and trespassing is forbidden.
• Never try boarding or dismounting a moving train.
• Never drive around, under or through a lowered crossing gate.
• Never try beating or racing a moving train to a crossing.
• Watch for the blue and white signs, flashing lights and crossing gates at rail crossings.
• For rail crossings with no gate, approach the tracks cautiously and be ready to stop if necessary.
• Buses and vehicles transporting hazardous material are required by law to stop at railroad tracks before crossing. Slow down and use caution when approaching any vehicle stopped at a rail crossing.
• Know your vehicle’s ground clearance and its ability to safely cross when roadways have different elevations on each side of the tracks.
• If your vehicle becomes stuck on or in close proximity to a rail crossing, have all passengers exit a safe distance away and immediately call 911 to report.

Call your local 911 call center immediately to report any damaged railroad tracks, crossing gates or vehicles stalled near rails. In Las Cruces and Doña Ana County, call (575) 526-0795 or 911 if it’s an emergency.