Rail Safety Week is now underway in communities across New Brunswick and the rest of Canada.
The national campaign runs from Monday to Sunday and aims to raise awareness about the dangers of unsafe behaviour around railway crossings.
The initiative is led by Operation Lifesaver Canada, in partnership with municipalities, law enforcement and rail companies.
This year’s message is direct: “Never stop on the tracks.”
The organization explains that trains are unable to swerve or stop quickly, and vehicles left on the tracks face potentially catastrophic consequences.
Drivers are being reminded to plan to avoid stopping on tracks, look both ways and listen before crossing, and never try to beat a train.
If a vehicle stalls on the tracks, Operation Lifesaver advises exiting immediately and moving away at a 45-degree angle in the direction the train is coming from.
Some crossings in New Brunswick include more than one set of tracks, which may require extra caution to ensure vehicles can fully clear the area.
