FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – Every three hours in the United States, a person or vehicle is hit by a train.
That’s according to Operation Life Saver, and it’s one of the reasons why officials are raising awareness this Rail Safety Week.
We spoke recently with Indiana State Police Sergeant Matt Ames about what people need to keep in mind about railroad crossings.
Ames said when coming to a crossing, to use caution, listen carefully, and if there’s a stop sign, to stop and look twice to make sure no train is coming. If there are railroad crossing arms, stop at least 15 feet away.
As far as things to never do, Ames comments on the importance of following safety guidelines.
“If you pull up to a railroad crossing and the arms are down, you never go around the arms while they’re down. If you believe there is a malfunction going on, call 911, the local dispatch center will get in contact with that railroad company and they’ll get mechanics there as quickly as possible to get those operating properly,” Ames said.
If your vehicle ever gets stuck on tracks, Ames said to call 911 immediately. and that there should also be a blue sign near the tracks with the railroad company’s number so you can alert them too.
If a train is coming while a vehicle is stuck on the tracks, run away from the vehicle as there could be flying debris.
