Railroad safety: Are you train safety savvy?

Published on December 04, 2024

Many students in Menlo Park have to cross Caltrain tracks on their way to school. These railroad crossings, including those at Ravenswood Avenue, Oak Grove Avenue and Encinal Avenue, should be treated with caution. Review the following tips on how to approach and cross railroad tracks safely and test your knowledge with the Train Safety Savvy Game from Operation Lifesaver.

• Be aware of warnings: Look and listen for trains. Be aware of lowering gates, flashing lights and/or ringing horns indicating an approaching train. If any of these warning signals are active, do not attempt to cross the tracks until the train has passed and the warnings are deactivated.
• Always expect a train: Before crossing railroad tracks, always look to your left and right to make sure no trains are approaching.
• Cross only at designated crossings: Wait for the gates to fully rise before crossing. Never assume that there is only one train coming from a single direction. Walk your bike or scooter when crossing the tracks, especially during rainy weather when wet railroad tracks can become slippery, creating an especially hazardous situation. If riding across the tracks, cross as close to a 90 degree angle to avoid tires getting caught in the tracks.
• Stay off the tracks: Walking on the tracks is illegal and dangerous.
• Take your time: Never race the train to the crossing or travel along the tracks.

For more resources on rail safety for kids, visit California Operation Lifesaver.