The Point: “Stay Off! Stay Away! Stay Alive!”
The expansion four years ago of Metrolink’s 91/Perris Valley Line and a growing number of freight trains across the region makes rail safety in Riverside County more important than ever. During Rail Safety Month and throughout the year, RCTC is committed to educating students, parents, and community members about the dangers of trespassing on railroad tracks.
Despite this year’s pandemic, RCTC has not stopped our rail safety education efforts. Although we discontinued in-person presentations, we have continued to spread our safety messages online. RCTC is maintaining its partnership with California Operation Lifesaver to ensure that our message is heard across the county to change dangerous decisions near railroad tracks.
Why is RCTC so invested in railroad safety? The statistics make it clear. California leads the nation in railroad-related incidents year after year. According to Federal Railroad Administration 2019 preliminary figures, there were 236 pedestrian rail trespassing casualties (fatalities and injuries) in California. These incidents all were preventable.
The following video highlights three simple yet important railroad safety facts that can save lives.
Please share these important messages with your friends, family, and social networks.