Mobilizing Communities for Rail Safety Awareness
CN has kicked off its annual awareness campaign focused on a critical theme: rail safety. This initiative, See Tracks? Think Train® Week, aims to educate communities on the dangers associated with railway tracks and properties. It's not just an event; it reflects a significant commitment to promoting safe interactions with rail systems throughout North America.
Engaging Communities and Promoting Rail Safety
From September 23-29, CN Police Services, along with a devoted team of CN employees, will connect with various communities to share essential safety messages. Their goal is to prevent accidents at rail crossings and to enhance the general understanding of railway safety protocols.
Shared Responsibility in Rail Safety
Stephen Covey, a leader in rail safety, stresses that safety is a collective responsibility. "We encourage communities to actively participate in spreading safety messages, especially regarding unsafe behaviors near railway property. Railways have played a key role in community development and economic growth for over a century. By supporting See Tracks? Think Train® Week, you can educate those around you and potentially save lives," Covey advocates.
The Statistics Behind the Need for Awareness
The numbers regarding rail safety are concerning. Each year in North America, there are typically over 2,000 crossing accidents and around 1,000 trespassing incidents. In a recent year alone, the United States experienced 2,192 rail crossing collisions, resulting in 247 unfortunate fatalities and 766 injuries. These statistics highlight the urgent need for increased rail safety education and active community involvement.
A Long-Term Commitment to Safety
For more than twenty years, CN has been at the forefront of promoting safe behavior in railroad environments. Collaborating with various municipalities and Indigenous communities, the company aims to raise awareness of rail safety in its operational areas. In one particularly successful year, over 428 communities acknowledged Rail Safety Week through official resolutions or proclamations.
Roles of CN Police Services
Every year, CN Police Services manage hundreds of incidents within their vast network, which spans eight provinces and 16 states. Besides safeguarding CN properties, CNPS invests time in delivering educational presentations to schools, transportation agencies, and community groups. Through innovative educational methods and strategic outreach efforts, CNPS seeks to instill safe practices and underscore the importance of rail safety among the public.
Get Involved and Stay Informed
The commitment to rail safety extends beyond CN employees; community involvement is vital. Everyone is encouraged to share safety messages and engage in discussions about safe practices around railway properties. Working together can greatly reduce risks associated with rail tracks, such as trespassing and unsafe crossings.
Contact for More Information
If you're interested in learning more about CN Police Services’ initiatives or if you’d like to arrange an interview, please contact our Media Relations. Reach out to Jonathan Abecassis, the Director of Public Affairs, at (438) 455-3692 or via email at media@cn.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is See Tracks? Think Train® Week?
This is CN's annual campaign aimed at increasing awareness about rail safety and promoting safe interactions with railway properties.
How can communities participate in this campaign?
Communities can get involved by spreading safety messages, taking part in local events, and formally recognizing Rail Safety Week.
Why is rail safety awareness important?
Raising awareness can help prevent accidents, lower fatalities, and promote safe practices concerning railway properties.
What role does CN Police Services play?
CN Police Services oversee incidents along CN’s network, provide educational presentations, and advocate safety initiatives to the public.
How can individuals learn more about railway safety?
Individuals can contact CN for resources and information on safe behaviors around railways and participate in educational programs provided by CN.
