The Ontario Provincial Police are holding an event partnering with agencies across the U.S. and Canada for "Operation Clear Track."
The event is called the continent's single largest rail-safety law enforcement initiative.
Coordinated by Amtrak, Operation Lifesaver Inc. and Operation Lifesaver Canada, Operation Clear Track aims to reduce railway crossing and trespassing incidents in Canada and the U.S. - incidents which seriously injure or kill more than 2,100 people each year. The event is held annually during Rail Safety Week (September 23-29, 2024).
"Ignoring railway signs and signals, being distracted at rail stations or crossings, or using tracks as a shortcut or a recreational path can lead to track tragedies that are entirely preventable," said Chris Day, Interim National Director, Operation Lifesaver Canada.
"Operation Clear Track's goal is to encourage people to avoid risky behaviours around tracks and trains so they stay safe and stay alive."
Rebecca McGlynn, communications officer with Ontario Northland here in North Bay, believes it is important as just this weekend she says there was a crossing incident on Widdifield Station Road which thankfully resulted in no injuries.
"This week is Rail Safety Week, which is an ideal opportunity to remind people to stay alert around railway tracks, use designated crossings and adhere to rail signage," she said.
"During this time, we work with our partners to share safety tips and information, and we participated in a social video from the North East OPP – out of Cochrane."
See that video HERE
More than 600 detachments across Canada are participating in Operation Clear Track this year. Each will promote rail safety by having conversations and sharing tips with drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. They will share rail-safety resources and content, and - as ever - they will enforce rail crossing and trespassing laws.
Day adds: "Track tragedies affect not only the individual, but their loved ones and entire communities. Railroaders and first responders, too. Rail safety is a shared responsibility. We all have a role to play."
For more information about Operation Clear Track, Rail Safety Week and other rail-safety initiatives and tips, please visit: operationlifesaver.ca
